Many of us have been there. You buy a whole chicken, brimming with dinner possibilities, only to find yourself short on time and unable to cook it immediately. So, it sits in the fridge. But how long is chicken safe to eat after being refrigerated? The general rule of thumb is to use chicken within 1-2 days of purchase, but what about that chicken sitting in your fridge for three days? Let's delve into the safety and best practices surrounding storing raw chicken.
How Long Does Chicken Last in the Fridge?
The USDA recommends using raw chicken within 1 to 2 days of purchasing it. After two days, the risk of bacterial growth, specifically Salmonella and Campylobacter, increases significantly. While a chicken might look okay after three days, it doesn't mean it's safe to eat. The bacteria causing foodborne illnesses are invisible to the naked eye.
What Happens to Chicken After 3 Days in the Fridge?
After three days in the refrigerator, the chicken is likely past its prime. The texture might become slightly slimy, and an unpleasant odor could develop. These are telltale signs of spoilage, and ignoring them could lead to food poisoning. While the chicken might not visibly show signs of decay, harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly, even at refrigerator temperatures.
Is it Safe to Eat Chicken After 3 Days in the Fridge?
No, it's not recommended to eat chicken that has been refrigerated for three days. The risk of foodborne illness is too high. Even if you cook the chicken thoroughly, harmful bacteria may already have produced toxins that cooking won't eliminate. These toxins can cause serious illness, including vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
Can I Freeze Chicken After 3 Days in the Fridge?
While you shouldn't eat chicken that has been in the fridge for three days, freezing it isn't a guaranteed solution either. While freezing kills some bacteria, it doesn't eliminate all potential toxins produced by bacteria already present. It's best to err on the side of caution and discard the chicken.
How Can I Tell if Chicken is Spoiled?
Besides the three-day rule, several other indicators can help determine if your chicken has gone bad:
- Smell: An unpleasant or sour odor is a clear sign of spoilage.
- Texture: Slimy or sticky texture indicates bacterial growth.
- Color: While a slight change in color isn't always a cause for alarm, significant discoloration (especially greenish or grayish hues) suggests spoilage.
Tips for Safe Chicken Storage:
- Buy only what you need: Reduce food waste and the risk of spoilage by purchasing only the amount of chicken you can use within 1-2 days.
- Proper refrigeration: Ensure your refrigerator is at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Store properly: Store raw chicken in a sealed container on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination. Never leave it at room temperature for extended periods.
- Cook thoroughly: Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria.
Remember, when in doubt, throw it out! Foodborne illness is a serious matter, and it's always better to err on the side of caution. Discarding potentially spoiled chicken is a small price to pay for your health and well-being.
