Are you a bacon lover who’s always wondering how long your favorite meaty treat will last in the fridge?
Look no further than Hormel Black Label Bacon!
But where exactly is the expiration date on this delicious bacon?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll break down the shelf life of raw and precooked bacon, as well as where to find the expiration date on Hormel Black Label Bacon.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to become a bacon storage expert.
Where Is The Expiration Date On Hormel Black Label Bacon?
The expiration date on Hormel Black Label Bacon can be found on the packaging. It’s usually located on the back or bottom of the package and is labeled as either a “use-by” or “best-before” date. This date is a good estimate of how long the bacon will retain its quality, but it’s important to note that it’s just an estimate.
Shelf Life Of Raw Bacon
Raw bacon has a limited shelf life, and it’s important to know how long it can be stored to avoid waste or potential health hazards. Unopened raw bacon can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator, while other types of bacon like turkey bacon or pancetta should last just as long under the same conditions. Once you open the package, the shelf life of raw bacon is shortened whether you cook it or not.
If you store opened raw bacon in a package that has been re-sealed, it will last up to a week in the fridge. To maximize the shelf life of opened raw bacon, you can store it in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Be sure to check your bacon regularly, as improperly stored bacon can go bad quickly. If it has spoiled, discard it immediately to prevent contaminating other products.
You can also store raw bacon in the freezer for longer periods. Uncooked and unopened bacon will last up to eight months in the freezer, while leftover raw bacon that’s properly stored will last up to six months in the freezer. It’s best to overwrap the original packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper or place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
It’s important to note that while raw bacon may still be safe to eat after its expiration date, its quality may have deteriorated significantly. Always use your best judgment when consuming expired food products and discard anything that looks or smells off.
Shelf Life Of Precooked Bacon
Precooked bacon is a convenient option for those who want to save time in the kitchen. If stored properly in the fridge, precooked bacon can last for four to five days, and even up to seven days. It’s important to note that safety is always a top priority when it comes to cooked food. The general rule is that cooked food shouldn’t be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
Once you’ve opened and cooked bacon, it can last for five to seven days in the refrigerator. If you have leftover cooked bacon that you won’t be able to use within the week, you can always freeze it. Frozen, cooked bacon will keep its delicious flavor and texture for about a month.
When it comes to thawing frozen cooked bacon, there are three safe ways to do it: in the microwave, in the refrigerator, or in cold water. It’s important not to leave your cooked bacon out on the counter to thaw. Once defrosted, it should be heated all the way through to an internal temperature of around 145 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. The easiest way to do this is to place it in a baking pan and warm it in the oven. Once reheated, it can be used in any way that you would normally use bacon.
It’s also important to know how to tell if your precooked bacon has gone bad. Signs of spoiled precooked bacon include discoloration, a slimy feel when touched, an off odor, or mold or mildew growing on the bacon. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to dispose of the bacon in the trash, sealed in a way to prevent pets or other animals from getting into it.
Factors That Affect Bacon Shelf Life
There are several factors that can affect the shelf life of bacon. The first is how the bacon is stored. Unopened bacon can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 8 months in the freezer. Once opened, bacon can last around 1 week in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer. Cooked bacon also has a shorter shelf life and can last around 4-5 days in the refrigerator and up to 1 month in the freezer.
The type of bacon can also affect its shelf life. Cooked Canadian bacon can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 4-8 weeks. Other varieties like pancetta, turkey bacon, and beef bacon all last approximately the same amount of time in the fridge or freezer as regular bacon.
In addition to storage and type, environmental factors can also affect the shelf life of bacon. Temperature, time, relative humidity, presence of gases, physical stress, and other environmental parameters can all impact how long bacon will last.
It’s important to note that even if bacon has not yet reached its expiration date, it should be discarded if it shows signs of spoilage such as a sour smell, slimy texture or discoloration. With proper storage and attention to these factors, bacon can last anywhere from a few days to several months in the fridge or freezer.
How To Store Bacon Properly
Properly storing bacon is essential to ensure its quality and safety. Unopened bacon can be kept in its original packaging in the refrigerator for up to one week after the “sell-by” date on the package. To maximize the shelf life of unopened bacon, it’s best not to open the package until you’re ready to use it.
If you have opened bacon, it’s important to store it properly to prevent spoilage. Wrap opened bacon with paper towels before storing it in a resealable plastic bag, or tightly wrap it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will help absorb moisture and prevent bacteria growth, which can cause spoilage.
It’s crucial to always keep bacon refrigerated or frozen. Unopened bacon can last for up to six months in the freezer, while opened and uncooked bacon will last for up to one week in the refrigerator and up to six months in the freezer. To maximize the shelf life of your opened bacon, store it in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
It’s also important to check your bacon regularly for signs of spoilage. If you notice a sour smell, dull color or slimy texture, discard it immediately to prevent contaminating other products.
Tips For Using Bacon Past The Expiration Date
If you find yourself with bacon that has passed its expiration date, there are a few things you can do to determine if it’s still safe to eat. First, check for any signs of spoilage such as discoloration, mold, or a sour smell. If the bacon appears and smells normal, you can try cooking it and tasting a small piece to see if it still tastes good.
It’s important to note that consuming expired bacon can pose health risks, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about the safety of the bacon, it’s best to discard it and purchase a fresh package.
If you do decide to use expired bacon, make sure to cook it thoroughly to kill any potential bacteria. Additionally, store it properly in the fridge or freezer to extend its shelf life. Wrapping opened bacon in paper towels before storing it in an airtight container can help absorb excess moisture and prevent spoilage.
In general, unopened bacon can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and up to eight months in the freezer. Opened and uncooked bacon should be used within a week and can be frozen for up to six months. Cooked bacon should be consumed within four to five days when stored in the refrigerator and up to one month in the freezer.
By following these tips and using your best judgment, you can safely enjoy bacon past its expiration date. However, always remember that freshness and quality are key when it comes to food safety.