Notes

How long does chicken stay in the refrigerator?
Chicken is a staple of many homes.


However, this healthy and tasty source of protein has a high risk of contamination by bacteria. You should make it ahead of time then store it in a safe place and cook it correctly to avoid foodborne illnesses.


It is easy to keep chicken in the fridge however, many people are unsure of how long chicken can safely be kept in the refrigerator.


This article will tell you how long chicken stays in your fridge.



How long will chicken keep in the refrigerator?



The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that raw chicken can keep in your refrigerator as long as 1-2 days. This is the same for raw turkey or other birds.


In the meantime, the chikem that has been cooked should keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.


Refrigerating chicken helps to slow bacterial growth. Bacteria can slow down growth at temperatures that are below 40°F (4°C).


Also, keep fresh chicken in a tightly sealed container to prevent any liquids from leaking and contaminating other foods. Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container.


If the chicken is to be kept for longer than a few hours it is best to put it in your freezer.


Raw chicken can be stored in the freezer for upto 9 months. A whole chicken can last for up to one and one-half years. For 2-6 months, you are able to store cooked chicken in your freezer.


A SUMMARY


Chicken that is raw can be kept in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days, while cooked chicken will last around 3-4 days.



What can you tell the difference between a good and bad chicken?



Chicken can spoil if left in the fridge for longer than 2 days.


Here are a few ways to determine whether your chicken is going bad in the refrigerator.



It is passed its "best before" date. You are more likely to get sick from cooked or raw chicken.


Colors shift. Raw or cooked chicken is turning a gray-green shade. The spots that have gray-to-green mold can indicate an infection with a bacterium.


The smell. Both raw and cooked chicken emit an acidic scent that is similar to ammonia when it is rotting. The smell might be harder to detect if the chicken was marinated in sauces, herbs, and spices.


Texture. How to keep leftover chicken without going bad is time to rid yourself of the slimy texture. Rinsing the chicken will not kill the bacteria. The risk of cross-contamination is when the bacteria are spread from the chicken to other food items and utensils.



If you suspect that your chicken is going bad in your fridge, throw it out.


A SUMMARY


It is easy to tell when your chicken has gone badly by the color of its meat, sour or acidic taste or the appearance of slimy.



What are the dangers of eating spoiled chicken




Consuming chicken that has been spoiled can lead to food poisoning or foodborne illness.


High risk of food poisoning could be due to chicken, which could have been infected somehow by bacteria like Campylobacter and Salmonella.


The bacteria are typically eliminated through cooking fresh chicken.


But, it is still important to be careful not to cook and eat cooked chicken that has been spoiled. Although re-heating or cooking can destroy surface bacteria however, it doesn't remove all of the toxins that are produced by the bacteria that could cause food poisoning when you consume them.


Food poisoning can cause pain and even death.


Sometimes, food poisoning that is severe can lead to death or hospitalization.


Don't eat the chicken in the event that it appears like it's been rotten. It's best to dispose of chicken that you suspect has gone bad.


Summary


Consuming spoiled chicken could cause food poisoning, even if it's cooked well.



The bottom line



The raw chicken will last 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator and cooked chicken lasts up to 3-4 days.


Examine for the "best by" date to determine if the chicken is rotten. Also be on the lookout for indicators such as a change in texture, smell or color.


Food poisoning is often caused by spoilt chicken.

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