How Long Does Pork Shoulder Last in the Fridge? A Comprehensive Guide to Safe Pork Storage

Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is a versatile and flavorful cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, like all meat, pork shoulder has a limited shelf life and must be stored properly to prevent spoilage. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about how long pork shoulder lasts in the fridge, as well as tips on how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and quality.

How Long Does Pork Shoulder Last in the Fridge?

The shelf life of pork shoulder in the fridge depends on a number of factors, including the temperature of the fridge, the packaging of the pork, and whether or not the pork has been cooked.

Raw pork shoulder: Raw pork shoulder can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
Cooked pork shoulder: Cooked pork shoulder can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Tips for Storing Pork Shoulder in the Fridge

To ensure that your pork shoulder stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible, follow these tips:

Store pork shoulder in the coldest part of the fridge. The coldest part of the fridge is typically the back of the bottom shelf.
Wrap pork shoulder tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent the pork from drying out and absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
Do not store pork shoulder in the door of the fridge. The door of the fridge is the warmest part of the fridge and is therefore not ideal for storing meat.

Signs of Spoiled Pork Shoulder

If you are unsure whether or not your pork shoulder has spoiled, look for the following signs:

Slimy texture: Spoiled pork shoulder will have a slimy texture.
Off odor: Spoiled pork shoulder will have an off odor, such as a sour or ammonia-like smell.
Discoloration: Spoiled pork shoulder may have a grayish or greenish discoloration.

What to Do if Your Pork Shoulder Has Spoiled

If you believe that your pork shoulder has spoiled, do not eat it. Discard the pork shoulder immediately and clean the area where it was stored thoroughly.

Pork shoulder is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, it is important to store pork shoulder properly to prevent spoilage. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your pork shoulder stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long can I freeze pork shoulder?

A: Pork shoulder can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I thaw pork shoulder in the microwave?

A: Yes, you can thaw pork shoulder in the microwave. However, it is important to thaw the pork shoulder on the defrost setting and to cook it immediately after thawing.

Q: What is the best way to cook pork shoulder?

A: Pork shoulder can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, braising, and smoking. The best way to cook pork shoulder depends on your personal preferences.

Ask the Test Kitchen: How Long Will Meat Last in the Fridge?

FAQ

Can I cook pork after 7 days in fridge?

For raw ground meats, poultry, seafood and variety meats (liver, tongue, chitterlings, etc.), refrigerate them only 1 to 2 days before either cooking or freezing. Beef, veal, lamb and pork roasts, steaks and chops may be kept 3 to 5 days.

Can I eat pork in the fridge for a week?

USDA recommends using cooked pork within three to four days, kept refrigerated (40 °F or less). Refrigeration slows but does not stop bacterial growth. USDA recommends using cooked leftovers within three to four days.

How long will vacuum sealed pork shoulder last in the fridge?

Vacuum-packed meat stored in a refrigerator: Beef: 8 days. Poultry: 7 days. Pork: 6 days.

Can I eat pork 7 days after sell by date?

Sell by – This creates an easy date for the retailer to know when the product has to be removed from their shelf and disposed of instead of being sold. In general, consumers have one to three days to use that meat product if it is fresh before there would be concern from a safety standpoint.