Expiration & Storage Tips
When does smoked bacon expire?
On average, smoked bacon that is bought from a store should last about one week to 2 weeks in the refrigerator after it has been opened or as per the 'use-by' date printed on the package. If it's unopened, it is safe for consumption up to a week past the 'use-by' date. Once opened, consume within 7 days for best quality. This is the timeframe given it is stored properly in the refrigerator. Smoked bacon can also be frozen, where it will last up to 6 months. When you need it, you should thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
How do you tell if smoked bacon is bad?
Inspect the smoked bacon closely for any discoloration; spoilt meat often turns gray or brown. A slime layer forming on the bacon might also be a sign of rancidness. If the bacon has a sour smell or if it simply smells 'off', it has likely gone bad and should not be eaten. Trust your nose – if it doesn’t smell right, chances are it isn’t.
Tips for storing smoked bacon to extend shelf life
• Always keep your smoked bacon refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
• Store opened slices of smoked bacon in a sealed plastic bag or wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
• For longer storage, consider freezing your smoked bacon. It can be frozen in its original packaging. However, if you plan to store it for longer than a couple of months, wrap the package again with freezer wrap or heavy duty aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Write the date on the package before freezing. Taking a moment to do this will make it easy for you to keep track of how long the bacon's been frozen.