Introduction
Raw chicken is a popular ingredient used in many recipes. It’s important to understand the proper guidelines for storing raw chicken in the refrigerator to ensure that it is safe to eat. So, how long can you leave raw chicken in the fridge?
Raw chicken is poultry that has not been cooked or processed in any way. This means that it must be handled carefully to avoid contamination and food-borne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli. It is also important to note that raw chicken should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours; after that, it should be thrown away.
In this article, we will explore the safety guidelines for storing raw chicken in the refrigerator and discuss how long you can safely leave it in the fridge. We will also provide some tips and tricks to help you keep your raw chicken fresh for longer.
Prepare Ahead: How Long Can You Store Raw Chicken in the Refrigerator?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that raw chicken be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. According to the USDA, raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. After that, it should be discarded.
It is important to note that the two-day rule applies to both cooked and uncooked chicken. If you plan to cook the chicken within two days, it is best to freeze it until you are ready to use it.
If you need to store raw chicken for longer than two days, you can freeze it for up to nine months. When freezing raw chicken, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil so that no air can get in. This will help to maintain the quality of the meat and prevent freezer burn.
Tips and Tricks to Storing Raw Chicken in the Refrigerator
When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it is important to keep it away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination. Raw chicken should be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator, where it is least likely to come into contact with other foods.
It is also important to make sure that the raw chicken is tightly sealed in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent any bacteria from growing on the surface of the meat.
Finally, it is important to make sure that the refrigerator is set at the correct temperature. The optimal temperature for storing raw chicken is 40°F or below. Any higher than this, and the risk of bacterial growth increases significantly.
Follow These Guidelines to Keep Your Raw Chicken Fresh in the Fridge
To ensure that your raw chicken remains safe to eat, it is important to follow the following guidelines:
- Always store raw chicken in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
- Do not leave raw chicken out at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Store raw chicken away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
- Make sure that the raw chicken is tightly sealed in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.
- Check the temperature of your refrigerator regularly to make sure it is set at 40°F or below.
It is also important to remember to always wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling raw chicken. This will help to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and food-borne illness.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your food stays safe and free from harmful bacteria.”
Conclusion
Storing raw chicken in the refrigerator is an important part of keeping it safe to eat. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that your raw chicken stays fresh and safe to consume. Always remember to store raw chicken in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and to discard it after two days. Additionally, make sure to keep raw chicken away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination and to wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling it.
By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure that your raw chicken remains safe to eat. Remember to always follow safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.
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