Maintaining the freshness and safety of your food in the refrigerator is crucial for both health and taste. In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the shelf life of various foods, including dairy products, meats, seafood, fruits, vegetables, prepared foods, leftovers, condiments, and sauces.
Are you looking to plan meals ahead and minimize food waste effectively? Understanding how long your everyday food items last in the fridge is key. This guide will help you adopt proper storage practices, plan meals efficiently, reduce waste, and ensure your food remains safe to eat.
How to Refrigerate Dairy Products
Milk and Cream: Once opened, milk and cream typically last 5-7 days. Unopened, they can stay fresh up to a week past the “sell by” date. Always store them at the back of the fridge where it is coldest.
Cheese: Hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss can last 3-4 weeks after opening, while softer cheeses such as brie and feta are best consumed within 1-2 weeks. Shredded cheese usually remains fresh for about a month.
Yogurt: Sealed yogurt can last up to two weeks past its expiration date, but once opened, it should be consumed within a week.
How to Refrigerate Meats and Seafood
Raw Poultry: Raw chicken and turkey should be cooked or frozen within 1-2 days of refrigeration.
Raw Red Meat: Beef, pork, and lamb can stay fresh for 3-5 days. Ground meats should be used within 1-2 days.
Seafood: Fish and shellfish are best when used within 1-2 days of purchase. Oily fish like salmon and mackerel spoil faster than lean fish like cod and haddock.
Cooked Meats and Seafood: Leftovers should be consumed within 3-4 days. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria.
How to Refrigerate Fruits and Vegetables
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