Are you a fan of peameal bacon?
This delicious Canadian staple is a breakfast favorite, but how long can you keep it in the fridge before it goes bad?
With conflicting information online, it can be hard to know for sure.
That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled everything you need to know about storing peameal bacon.
From how long it lasts in the fridge to tips for freezing and reheating, we’ve got you covered.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
How Long Does Peameal Bacon Last In The Fridge?
Peameal bacon is a cured meat made from pork loin, and it’s a popular breakfast food in Canada. If you’re wondering how long it lasts in the fridge, the answer depends on whether it’s cooked or uncooked.
Uncooked peameal bacon can last up to one week in the fridge if it’s tightly wrapped. To extend its shelf life, you can store it in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it securely in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. However, if you want to keep it for longer than a week, it’s best to freeze it.
Cooked peameal bacon has a shorter shelf life than uncooked bacon. You should consume it within three days of cooking and store it in the refrigerator at a temperature between 1-4°C. If you don’t plan on eating your cooked peameal bacon within three days, freezing it is a better option.
What Is Peameal Bacon?
Peameal bacon is a type of Canadian bacon that is made from pork loin that has been cured in a mixture of salt and sugar. After curing, the pork loin is rolled in cornmeal, giving it a distinctive yellow color and a slightly crunchy texture when cooked.
Peameal bacon is a leaner alternative to regular bacon, with less fat and fewer calories. It’s also a good source of protein, making it a popular breakfast food in Canada.
Peameal bacon can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, or baking. It’s often served as part of a traditional Canadian breakfast, alongside eggs, toast, and home fries.
When storing peameal bacon, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s a cured meat and will last longer than raw pork. However, cooked peameal bacon has a shorter shelf life than uncooked bacon and should be consumed within three days of cooking.
To extend the shelf life of uncooked peameal bacon, you can freeze it for up to three months. When freezing peameal bacon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe plastic bag. For longer-term storage, vacuum sealing is recommended.
Signs Of Spoiled Peameal Bacon
It’s important to know the signs of spoiled peameal bacon, as consuming spoiled meat can lead to food poisoning. Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Discoloration: If you notice any green, gray or brown discoloration on your peameal bacon, it’s a sign that it’s gone bad and should be discarded.
2. Mold: Mold spots on your peameal bacon are a clear indication that it’s no longer safe to eat.
3. Slimy texture: If your peameal bacon feels slimy or has a sticky texture, it’s a sign that bacteria has started to grow on it.
4. Unpleasant smell: Even if you only detect a hint of an unpleasant smell, it’s a sign that your peameal bacon has gone bad and should be thrown away.
It’s important to note that if you’re unsure whether your peameal bacon has spoiled or not, it’s better to err on the side of caution and dispose of it. Eating spoiled meat can lead to foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious health problems.
Tips For Storing Peameal Bacon In The Fridge
Here are some tips for storing peameal bacon in the fridge:
1. Keep it tightly wrapped: Whether your peameal bacon is cooked or uncooked, it’s important to keep it tightly wrapped to prevent moisture from getting in and bacteria from growing. You can use a resealable plastic bag or wrap it securely in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
2. Label it with a date: To keep track of how long your peameal bacon has been stored, label the container or bag with a date. This will help you avoid consuming spoiled bacon.
3. Store it at the right temperature: The ideal temperature for storing peameal bacon is between 1-4°C. Make sure your refrigerator is set to this temperature and check it regularly to ensure it stays within this range.
4. Consume it within three days: Cooked peameal bacon should be consumed within three days of cooking. If you don’t plan on eating it within that time frame, freeze it instead.
5. Freeze for longer storage: If you want to store your peameal bacon for longer than a week, freezing is the best option. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your peameal bacon stays fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible.
Freezing Peameal Bacon: How To Do It Right
If you want to freeze peameal bacon, it’s important to do it right to ensure that it stays fresh and tasty. Here are some tips for freezing peameal bacon:
1. Wrap it tightly: Before freezing your peameal bacon, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the bacon fresh for longer.
2. Use a freezer-safe bag: Once you’ve wrapped the peameal bacon in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer-safe plastic bag. This will provide an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
3. Label and date the bag: Don’t forget to label and date the bag of peameal bacon before putting it in the freezer. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been frozen and when it’s time to use it.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months: Peameal bacon can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its quality or flavor. After that, the flavor may start to deteriorate.
5. Consider vacuum sealing: If you want to keep your peameal bacon frozen for even longer, consider vacuum sealing it. This will help prevent freezer burn and extend its shelf life.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your peameal bacon stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible, whether you’re storing it in the fridge or the freezer.
How To Reheat Peameal Bacon: Best Practices
If you have leftover peameal bacon that you want to reheat, there are several methods you can use. Here are some best practices for reheating peameal bacon:
1. Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the peameal bacon on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven for 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through.
2. Microwave: Place the peameal bacon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until it’s heated through.
3. Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Place the peameal bacon in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s heated through.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the peameal bacon with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 165°F before consuming. Also, avoid reheating peameal bacon more than once, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
