Wondering how long does turkey last in the fridge? You’re not alone!
Before you put that turkey breast on the grill, it’s good to know it is safe to eat.
In this article, we will
- Discuss storage times for raw and cooked leftover turkey,
- Provide you with tips for safely storing turkey,
- How long turkey lasts in freezer, and
- Give you signs of spoilage to look out for.
So if you want to make sure your turkey won’t make you sick, continue on to the next section.
How Long Does Raw Turkey Last in the Fridge?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides guidance on how long to keep turkey in the fridge.
What if your turkey is still raw?
If you bought it fresh, cook it within one to two days.
Thawing a frozen turkey in the fridge takes about one day for every four to five pounds. Once it’s thawed, cook it within one to two days.
Make sure your fridge is at the right temperature. It should be below 40°F (4°C) to keep the turkey safe from harmful bacteria an toxins.
How Long Does Leftover Turkey Last in the Fridge?
According to the USDA, cooked turkey can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
The key is to place the turkey in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
If you can’t finish the turkey within 4 days, consider freezing it.
How Long Does Turkey Last in the Freezer?
How Long Does Raw Turkey Last in the Freezer?
Storing raw turkey in the freezer is a great way to keep it fresh for a longer period of time. The USDA’s guidance is that raw turkey can be safely frozen for up to 12 months.
This is good news if you find a good sale on turkey or if you’re stocking up for future meals.
When freezing turkey, it’s important to do it right. Make sure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. Bacteria will not grow at this temperature.
Wrap the turkey well to prevent freezer burn and keep its quality.
How Long Does Leftover Turkey Last in the Freezer?
Leftover turkey will last in the freezer for 2 to 6 months. This is a great way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it later.
When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it safely in the fridge to keep the turkey safe from bacteria growth.
Tips for Storing Turkey in the Fridge
It is important to follow proper food safety guidelines to prevent spoilage and potential foodborne illnesses.
Here are some tips for storing turkey safely in the fridge.
- Refrigerate cooked turkey within two hours of cooking.
- Keep your fridge at 40°F or colder.
- Wrap turkey well in plastic or foil.
- Remove the meat from the bones. Eat cooked turkey within three to four days.
- Store raw turkey on the bottom shelf of the fridge.
- Thaw frozen turkey in the fridge, not on the counter
Welcome to the Danger Zone
One of the most critical factors in determining the shelf life of turkey is the storage temperature.
The “danger zone” for bacterial growth is between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C).
If turkey is left in this temperature range for more than two hours, it should be discarded to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
Check out the video blow to get an overview how bacteria grows in the danger zone.
Signs of Spoilage to Look Out For
Proper storage and handling of turkey is important for food safety. Always check your turkey for any of the signs of spoilage below.
- If your turkey has a sour or unpleasant smell, it may indicate spoilage.
- If the texture of the turkey feels slimy or sticky, it may also indicate spoilage.
- If the juices from the turkey are cloudy or discolored, this may be a sign of spoilage.
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the turkey to prevent potential foodborne illnesses.
Final Thoughts on Turkey Safety
How long does turkey last in the fridge? In this post, we provide the answer for raw and cooked leftover turkey.
According to USDA’s guidelines, raw turkey will safely stay in the refrigerator for a day or two. But to prevent spoilage, your fridge has to set to a minimum of 40 °F.
Likewise, the USDA recommends 3-4 days for leftover cooked turkey in the refrigerator.
If these times are longer than when plan to either cook or eat your turkey, freeze it.
And if you are not sure your turkey is safe to eat, the best thing to do is throw it out.
So don’t open the door to foodborne illness. Just follow our guidance on how long in this post!
For more helpful informational tips related to food safety, check out our BBQ guides.
FAQs for How Long Does Turkey Last in the Fridge
How Long Does Turkey Last In the Fridge if Thawed?
A thawed turkey can stay in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. This is true whether you’ve thawed it in the fridge or another method. If you change your mind about cooking the turkey, you can refreeze it within this time. But, its quality might decrease a bit.
How long is turkey bacon good in the fridge?
Turkey bacon can last in the refrigerator up to 7 days if it is stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure to check the expiration date before consuming it.
Is ground turkey good after 5 days in the fridge?
Ground turkey can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge if it is stored properly. It is important to cook the ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria.
