Expiration & Storage Tips
When does pork chops expire?
Unopened, fresh pork chops can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator past the 'sell by' date. Once opened, they should be consumed within 2 to 3 days. If you store uncooked pork chops in the freezer, they can last between 4 to 6 months. If you cook pork chops and store leftovers in the refrigerator, they are good for 3 to 4 days, while they can last 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if pork chops is bad?
Fresh pork chops are typically pink to creamy white in color. If they turn greyish brown, they have most likely gone bad. Similarly, a strong, sour or unpleasant odor is a clear sign of spoiled pork chops. If the surface is tacky or slimy, the meat is not safe to eat. Lastly, any sign of mold indicates that the pork chops have spoiled and should not be consumed.
Tips for storing pork chops to extend shelf life
• Store pork chops in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically at the back on the bottom shelf.
• You can extend the shelf life of pork chops by freezing them. Before freezing, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• If you want to defrost frozen pork chops, do so in the refrigerator and never at room temperature.
• Cooked leftovers should be stored in airtight containers and placed in the refrigerator as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth.
• When reheating cooked pork chops, ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have developed.