Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chicken hot dog expire?
Unopened, a package of chicken hot dogs should last until the 'Use By' date printed on the packaging, usually about 2 weeks after purchase. Once opened, they should be consumed within a week. If you freeze them, they can last up to 2 months. Just like other types of meat, homemade chicken hot dogs have a shorter lifespan, typically 1-3 days in the refrigerator.
How do you tell if chicken hot dog is bad?
Check the hot dogs for any dramatic changes in color (a green or gray tint is a sure sign it's time to throw them away). Give them a sniff - if they're off, they'll have a sour, rotten, or unusually strong smell. Also, if you notice a slimy surface or mold, it's definitely not safe to eat.
Tips for storing chicken hot dog to extend shelf life
• Keep them in the refrigerator and store them in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from absorbing other flavors.
• If you've opened a package but don't plan to eat all the hot dogs right away, store the remaining ones in a resealable bag with as little air as possible.
• To freeze hot dogs, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then store all of them in a freezer-safe bag. It will help to easily take out only the amount you need. Mark the bag with the date you froze them to remember their cycle.
• Defrost frozen hot dogs by placing them in the refrigerator, not in room temperature. It allows them to slowly thaw while maintaining their safety.