Bacon bits are a delicious addition to any meal, adding a savory crunch and a burst of bacon flavor. But when it comes to storing them, there seems to be some confusion.
Do bacon bits need to be refrigerated?
The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of bacon bits and their storage requirements, so you can enjoy your favorite bacon bits without worrying about food safety.
So, let’s dive in!
Do Bacon Bits Need To Be Refrigerated?
When it comes to bacon bits, the answer to whether or not they need to be refrigerated depends on the type of bacon bits you have.
If you have imitation bacon bits, which are typically made from processed soy, then they can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place like your pantry. These types of bacon bits are shelf-stable and can last for a long time without refrigeration.
However, if you have real bacon bits, which are made from actual crumbled cooked bacon, then they need to be refrigerated after opening. Real bacon bits are technically a cured form of meat and can become susceptible to germs if not stored properly. It’s best to treat your real bacon bits how you would treat cured bacon and store them in the refrigerator.
It’s important to note that if you’ve already opened the packet of real bacon bits and haven’t refrigerated them, it’s best to throw them out. The risk of possible food poisoning is not worth it.
Home-cooked bacon bits that are made from real bacon should also be refrigerated in an airtight container and will last up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to six months by wrapping them tightly and storing them in the freezer.
Different Types Of Bacon Bits
There are different types of bacon bits available in the market, and it’s important to know which ones need to be refrigerated and which ones don’t.
First, there are real bacon bits that are made from actual crumbled cooked bacon. These bacon bits need to be refrigerated after opening, as mentioned earlier. They are typically sold in packets and can be found in the meat or salad aisles of grocery stores.
Next, there are imitation bacon bits that are made from processed soy. These types of bacon bits are shelf-stable and can last for a long time without refrigeration. They can be stored in a cool, dry place like your pantry.
It’s also important to note that some bacon bits come with artificial flavorings such as hickory or maple, while others are just bacon with few other ingredients. All bacon bits made with real bacon are labeled “real,” but none have the signature crispiness of just-fried bacon.
Shelf-Stable Bacon Bits
Shelf-stable bacon bits are a popular choice for those who want to add real bacon flavor to their dishes without the need for refrigeration. These types of bacon bits are made from 100% real bacon that has been ground and cooked to develop a great bacon flavor. The cooked bacon bits have been processed to separate the bacon bits from the bacon fat, and then quickly cooled, sized, and packed to retain their great bacon flavor.
Shelf-stable bacon bits can be used in any food system where real bacon flavor is desired. They are perfect for salad toppings, gravies, quiche, potato toppings, pasta, bakery items, sauces, and soups. The best thing about shelf-stable bacon bits is that they can last for a long time without refrigeration as long as they remain unopened.
Once you open the foil pouch of shelf-stable bacon bits, it’s recommended that you refrigerate them to extend their shelf life. While it’s not necessary to refrigerate them immediately after opening, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator after opening to ensure they stay fresh for longer. If you’ve already opened the package of shelf-stable bacon bits and haven’t refrigerated them, they can last up to six weeks in the refrigerator or up to six months in the freezer.
Refrigerated Bacon Bits
Refrigerated bacon bits are the real deal, made from actual cooked bacon that has been crumbled or chopped. These bacon bits are typically dried and have preservatives added to extend their shelf life. Once opened, it’s recommended to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of bacteria and to extend their shelf life.
According to Eat by Date, refrigerated bacon bits made with real bacon can last anywhere from 6 weeks in the refrigerator to 6 months in the freezer. However, the range of dates is only as good as your storage method. It’s important to store your bacon bits in an airtight container and label them with the date they were opened.
It’s important to note that if you’ve already opened the packet of refrigerated bacon bits and haven’t refrigerated them, it’s best to throw them out. The risk of possible food poisoning is not worth it.
How To Store Bacon Bits Properly
To properly store bacon bits, it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here’s how to store bacon bits properly:
1. Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag: To keep out moisture and air, store your bacon bits in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Before sealing the container or bag, remove as much air as possible.
2. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your container or bag of bacon bits in a cool, dry place like your pantry. Avoid storing them in damp or humid areas, as this can cause them to spoil faster.
3. Refrigerate if necessary: If you have real bacon bits, which are made from actual crumbled cooked bacon, then they need to be refrigerated after opening. Place them in a sealed container or plastic bag to keep out moisture.
4. Label with the date: Label the container or bag with the date of purchase or opening so you can track when they were opened and when they should be used.
5. Avoid cross-contamination: Keep the bacon bits away from raw meats, fish, or poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your bacon bits stay fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible. Remember to always check for signs of spoilage before consuming any stored food.
How Long Do Bacon Bits Last?
The shelf life of bacon bits depends on the type of bacon bits you have. If you have imitation bacon bits made from processed soy, they can last for a long time without refrigeration and can be stored in a cool, dry place like your pantry. On the other hand, if you have real bacon bits made from actual crumbled cooked bacon, they need to be refrigerated after opening. Real bacon bits are a cured form of meat and can become susceptible to germs if not stored properly.
According to Eat by Date, real bacon bits made from actual bacon can last anywhere from 6 weeks in the refrigerator to 6 months in the freezer once opened. However, the range of dates is only as good as your storage method. It’s important to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
If you’ve cooked your own bacon bits at home using real bacon, they should also be refrigerated in an airtight container and will last up to five days. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to six months by wrapping them tightly and storing them in the freezer.
It’s important to note that once opened, real bacon bits should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. If they have been left out for longer than that, it’s best to throw them out to avoid the risk of possible food poisoning.
Tips For Using Bacon Bits In Your Cooking
Bacon bits are a versatile ingredient that can add a rich and savory flavor to many dishes. Here are some tips for using bacon bits in your cooking:
1. Use bacon bits as a topping: Bacon bits make a great topping for salads, baked potatoes, and other side dishes. They add a crunchy texture and a smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
2. Know what the bacon bits are made of: It’s important to read the label and know what the bacon bits are made of before using them in your cooking. Some bacon bits are made from soy or other plant-based proteins, while others are made from real bacon. If you’re looking for the authentic bacon flavor, choose real bacon bits.
3. Replace regular bacon with bacon bits: Bacon bits can be a convenient substitute for strips of freshly cooked bacon in recipes. They’re already cooked and crumbled, which saves time and reduces mess in the kitchen.
4. Use bacon bits as a condiment: Bacon bits are primarily used as a condiment rather than a main ingredient. They’re meant to enhance the flavor of the dish, not overpower it. Use them sparingly to avoid adding too much fat, calories, and sodium to your meal.
5. Store bacon bits properly: If you’re using real bacon bits, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Label the container with the date of purchase or opening so you can keep track of when they should be used. If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze them for up to six months.
By following these tips, you can make the most out of your bacon bits and add some delicious flavor to your meals.
