Turkey bacon is lower in fat, lower in calories and has less sodium, so it's a healthier alternative to regular bacon. If you don't eat it all in one meal, you may wonder how long turkey bacon lasts? This helpful guide will give you storage tips so you can enjoy the longest shelf life of your bacon.
My family loves all kinds of bacons. We're all familiar with regular pork bacon but fresh turkey bacon is the perfect option for those limiting calorie and fat intake.
Turkey bacon is usually made from the dark meat portions. It's seasoned to taste like traditional pork bacon and then shaped to into long strips much like regular bacon. Uncooked turkey bacon will have a subtle pink color but will look more like traditional bacon when cooked.
Cured vs. Uncured
Cured bacon is made using nitrates and salt to add flavor and prevent bacterial growth.
Uncured bacon is still treated with a salt solution but it is naturally derived and does not contain nitrates.
How long does raw turkey bacon last in the fridge?
An unopened package can usually be kept for 7-14 days. Always check the sell-by date and purchase bacon that is not nearing its expiration date. The sooner you cook the bacon, the fresher it will taste. Turkey bacon typically has a quicker expiration date than regular bacon.
Once opened, turkey bacon can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. Like all raw meat, it will begin to break down quickly once the package has been opened. This also goes for unpackaged bacon that is bought at the meat counter of your grocery store.
Best Storage Practices
Once you are home, how you store the packet of raw turkey bacon will affect how long it will keep. Place the unopened package into the fridge until ready to use. Any uncooked leftovers should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. Never store it at room temperature.
Can you freeze turkey bacon?
Freezing bacon made from turkey is a great way to extend its shelf life for up to 3 months. It can actually be frozen for a few months longer and will not spoil, however, the quality is best when eaten within three months. Bacon can be thawed overnight in the fridge when you are ready to use.
Unopened bacon can be stored in its original package in the freezer. It should be also be wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. For the best results, store it in a heavy-duty freezer bag.
How long does cooked leftover turkey bacon keep in the fridge?
When properly stored, it cxan be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. It is best to tightly wrap the bacon in foil or cling wrap or store it in an airtight containter.
To reheat, place it in a single layer on a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate and reheat in the microwave oven in 30 second increments until warmed through and crispy. It will continue to cook when reheating so make sure not to overcook.
For crispy turkey bacon, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.
Turkey bacon can be used in all of your favorite recipes. I love to make bacon early in the week so I can add it to casseroles, soups, salads, or sandwiches such as BLT's.
How to tell if bacon has gone bad
No one wants to eat food that has gone bad. Eating bad turkey bacon can lead to food poisoning and make you very sick. Here are some of the easiest ways to tell if your bacon has spoiled.
- Color: Fresh raw bacon has a pinkish color and may have some marbling from the fat.
- Smell: It should smell smoky and fresh. A sour smell is a sure sign that it's time to toss the bacon in the trash. It should never have a bad smell.
- Texture: Spoiled turkey bacon may have a slimy texture. This is a sign that lactic acid bacteria is present and the meat has gone bad.
When it comes to fresh meat, you really want the best quality. It's always a good idea to air of the side of caution and discard any meat that has a foul odor or rotton smell, a grey tint or a slimy texture. These are all signs of potentially harmful bacteria growth.
Best turkey bacon recipes
While there is nothing like the smell of air fried bacon coming from my kitchen on a Saturday morning, turkey bacon is a great lower fat option so I make it more often. Here are some of my family's favorites:
- Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Bacon
- Braised Collard Greens with Turkey Bacon
- Turkey Bacon Breakfast Quesadilla from The Creative Bite
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