For all us who love a good rack of ribs, it’s important to know how to store them to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat.
In this guide, we discuss how long raw and cooked chicken lasts in the fridge. The answer is 3-5 days.
We also discuss how to tell if ribs have gone bad, how to store ribs for safety and freshness, and the risks of eating spoiled ribs.
So, let’s get started and find out how long your ribs will last in the fridge!
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How Long Are Ribs Good in the Fridge?
When you’re planning a barbecue, knowing how long your ribs will stay good in the fridge is important. Let’s dive into the details so you can plan your cookout perfectly.
How Long Do Raw Ribs Last in the Fridge
First up, let’s talk about raw pork ribs. When you bring them home from the store, you’ve got a window of time to use them.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) says raw ribs will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. This is your best time to get them on the grill or smoker.
After that, the quality starts to go downhill. Always check for any odd smells or colors. If something seems off, it’s better to play it safe and not use them.
How Long Do Cooked Ribs Last in the Fridge
Now, how long are cooked ribs good in the fridge. After you’ve worked your magic on the grill or smoker, you can enjoy those ribs for a bit longer.
According to USDA cooked ribs will last for up to 5 days if stored properly in the fridge.
Make sure to store them in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps them tasting great and safe to eat.
When you’re ready to eat them again, reheating them properly brings back that fresh-off-the-grill flavor.
How to Tell if Ribs are Bad
Knowing if ribs are bad is very important. You don’t want to ruin a good meal or risk getting sick.
Let’s break down how to spot bad ribs, whether they’re raw or cooked.
How to Tell if Raw Ribs Have Gone Bad
Smell Test
Give your raw ribs the sniff test. Fresh ribs should have a mild, meaty smell. If they give off a sour or ammonia-like odor, it’s a no-go.
Trust your nose; if it smells off, it probably is.
Color Check
Look at the color. Fresh raw ribs should be pinkish-red. If you see any gray or green spots, that’s a sign they’re past their prime.
Also, a slimy texture is a big red flag. Fresh meat should be slightly moist but never slimy.
Expiration Date
Always check the expiration date. Even if the ribs seem okay, if they’re past that date, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Tell if Cooked Ribs Have Gone Bad
Appearance and Smell
Cooked pork ribs should retain their color and texture. If they start to look gray or have a funky smell, it’s time to toss them. Any signs of mold are a definite indicator that they’re no longer good.
Texture
Feel the ribs. They should be moist but not slimy. If there’s a sticky or slimy layer on the surface, that’s a sign of bacterial growth.
Taste Test
If everything seems okay but you’re still unsure, a small taste test can help. If they taste sour or just “off,” don’t eat any more.
Remember, when in doubt, throw it out. It’s better to lose a few ribs than risk food poisoning.
How Long Do Ribs Last in the Freezer
Freezing ribs is a great way to extend their shelf life. Whether they’re raw or cooked, proper freezing can keep your ribs tasty for a future barbecue.
Let’s explore how long you can keep those ribs in the freezer.
How Long Do Raw Ribs Last
When you store raw ribs in the freezer, they can last a long time. The USDA says that frozen foods stay safe almost indefinitely. But for the best quality, you should use the ribs within four to six months.
Freezing ribs at 0°F (-18°C) keeps them safe by stopping bacteria from growing. Remember, the quality of the ribs might change over time. They can lose some of their flavor and texture.
How Long Do Cooked Ribs Last
Cooked ribs can also be kept in the freezer for a long time. According to the USDA, they will stay safe to eat indefinitely when frozen.
But for the best taste and quality, it’s best to eat them within two to three months.
Freezing cooked ribs at 0°F stops bacteria from growing. Over time, though, the ribs might lose some of their taste and texture.
Tips for Storing Ribs Safely
To keep your ribs fresh and safe to eat, follow these general guidelines for storing ribs in the fridge:
- Set the fridge temperature to 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth and food spoilage.
- Use a clean and dry container or wrap to store the ribs and prevent air and moisture from entering. You can use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or an airtight container.
- Label and date the ribs to keep track of their shelf life and avoid confusion. Write the date when you bought or cooked the ribs, and the date when you need to use or freeze them.
- Consume or freeze the ribs within the recommended time frame to ensure food safety and quality.
Risks of Eating Spoiled Ribs
Eating spoiled ribs, even after cooking, can be risky. The USDA explains that cooking spoiled meat doesn’t always make it safe to eat. This is because some bacteria on spoiled meat can produce toxins that aren’t destroyed by heat.
If you eat spoiled ribs, you might get food poisoning. Signs of this include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. These symptoms can start a few hours to several days after eating the bad meat.
It’s important to be careful with meat. Check ribs for signs of spoilage
How To Prevent Spoilage of Ribs
Follow these tips to keep your ribs safe to eat.
- Thaw ribs in the fridge, not on the counter or in the sink.
- Marinate ribs in the fridge, not at room temperature.
- Cook ribs to the safe internal temperature, which is 145°F for pork.
- Rest ribs for no more than 10 minutes before serving or storing.
- Refrigerate ribs within two hours of cooking or sooner if possible.
- Reheat ribs to at least 165°F before eating or serving.
Wrapping It Up
We answered the question “how long do ribs last in the fridge”. And the simple answer is pork ribs last between three to five days. But, there’s more to it than just time.
The shelf life of ribs in the fridge depends on several factors, like whether the ribs are cooked or raw.
To ensure your ribs remain in tip top condition, follow our storage tips. These will help keep them looking and tasting their best for as long as possible.
And if you’re ever unsure about spoilage, don’t risk it. Just throw your ribs away. This easy-to-follow guide helps you decide when it’s safer to let those ribs go.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health!
And if you plan to cook some ribs the next time you grill or barbecue, read our helpful BBQ guide.
FAQs for How Long Do Ribs Last in the Fridge
What is the shelf life of vacuum-sealed pork ribs?
Vacuum-sealed pork ribs can last up to two weeks in the fridge. However, it’s important to keep them at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to ensure freshness. If you’re not planning on using the ribs within two weeks, it’s best to freeze them.
How long can thawed ribs stay in the fridge?
Thawed ribs can last in the fridge for three to five days. It’s important to thaw them in the fridge and not at room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
