Expiration & Storage Tips
When does pheasant expire?
Unopened, fresh pheasant can last roughly 1-2 days in the fridge if it was bought fresh, and up to 1 year if kept deep-frozen. Once the pheasant has been opened or cooked, it should be eaten within 3-4 days in the fridge or kept frozen for up to 4 months for the best quality. If you've received or hunted a wild pheasant, it should be cleaned and refrigerated or frozen promptly, as it will start to spoil very quickly, especially in warm weather.
How do you tell if pheasant is bad?
A spoiled pheasant will depict several distinct changes. You might notice a change in the color from a rosy hue to a dull gray. The bird may develop a slimy or sticky coating. The most apparent sign, however, is the smell. If the pheasant begins to emit a sour, pungent or off smelling odor, it's time to toss it out.
Tips for storing pheasant to extend shelf life
For longer storage periods, freezing your pheasant is an excellent choice. It's better to freeze pheasants in vertical game bags rather than lying flat to make the best use of freezer space.
• Always wrap your pheasant airtight in either plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or freezer paper.
• In the fridge, store it on the bottom shelf in a sealed container to prevent raw juices from contaminating other foods.
• If freezing, it's best to portion out the bird before freezing for easier defrosting and cooking.
• Thawing should always be done in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to avoid bacterial growth.
• Even though pheasant can be frozen for up to 1 year for safety, try to use it within 4 months for the best quality thought.