Cooked pork is a versatile and delicious ingredient, perfect for quick weeknight meals or for serving at big dinner parties. But once you’ve cooked it, how long does pork last in the fridge?
Generally, cooked pork should last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. However, how long exactly cooked pork last in the fridge depends on a few factors. So, read on to find out all.
Related:
- How Long to Bake Pork Chops at 350 F
- How Long Can Cooked Bacon Sit Out
- How Long Do Hot Dogs Last In The Fridge
When Should Cooked Pork Be Refrigerated?
Ideally, cooked pork should be put in the fridge or frozen within 2 hours of cooking. That’s because leaving cooked pork at room temperature for too long can cause bacteria to start growing, which increases the risk of food poisoning.
You should also leave cooked pork out of the fridge for less than 2 hours, as bacteria can multiply quickly at warmer temperatures.
How Long Does Cooked Pork Last In The Fridge?
So, how long does cooked pork last in the fridge once it’s been refrigerated?
The USDA states that cooked pork can be safely stored in the fridge for three to four days. This is assuming that the pork was stored within two hours of cooking and that it has been kept refrigerated at less than or equal to 40 degrees F.
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked pork for 3 – 4 months. However, if you plan to freeze cooked pork, make sure that it is tightly wrapped in airtight packaging and labeled with the date of freezing.
The Storage Time Of Different Sorts Of Cooked Pork In The Fridge
However, the exact length of time cooked pork will last in the fridge can vary depending on a few factors, including the types of cooked pork.
Here are some general refrigerator storage times for different varieties of prepared pork:
| Pork Varieties | Shelf Time (days) |
| Chops from pork | 4 days |
| Loin of pork | 4 days |
| Pork shoulder | 1 – 2 days |
| The belly of pork | 4 days |
| Ribs from pork | 4 days |
| Ham or pork roast | 5 to 7 days |
| The pork ground | 2 to 3 days |
| Pork tenderloin | 3, 4 or even 5 days |
| Sausage | 1 to 2 days |
How To Store Cooked Pork?
You have known how long cooked pork lasts in the fridge. However, the shelf-life of cooked pork will also depend on how it is stored. To ensure that cooked pork remains safe to consume within 3-4 days in the fridge, follow these guidelines:
- Store cooked pork in the fridge after a maximum of 2 hours of cooking.
- Keep cooked pork wrapped tightly in airtight packaging, such as aluminum foil or zip-top bags.
- Place cooked pork on a shallow dish to prevent it from coming into contact with raw meats and juices.
- Make sure cooked pork is labeled and dated so you know for how long it can be stored safely.
- For longer storage, freeze cooked pork in airtight freezer bags or containers.
What are the Signs of Bad Cooked Pork?
In some cases, even if cooked pork is stored properly in the fridge, it can still go bad. To determine bad cooked pork, look for signs such as:
- A strong sour or off odor
- Discoloration, especially greenish hues
- Slimy or sticky textures
- Out-of-date labels
If any of the above signs are present, discard cooked pork right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
How To Use Up Leftover Pork Quickly?
If you have leftover cooked pork that’s nearing its expiration date, there are a few ways to use it up quickly:
- Make a sandwich or wrap it with some cheese and vegetables.
- Add cooked pork to soups or stews.
- Stir-fry cooked pork with your favorite veggies.
- Mix cooked pork into pasta dishes.
- Serve cooked pork with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
These are just some of the ideas to use up leftover cooked pork. So, if you’re not sure how long cooked pork will last in the fridge, make sure to use it up as soon as possible for the best results.
How Can Leftover Pork Be Defrosted And Reheated?
Leftover cooked pork can be defrosted and reheated in the microwave or stove.
To defrost cooked pork, place it on a plate in the fridge overnight. To reheat cooked pork, you can either heat it up in a saucepan on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes or for 1-2 minutes in the microwave.
Make sure to check that it’s heated through before eating and avoid reheating cooked pork more than once.
FAQs
Should Cooked Pork be Refrigerated after Five Days?
No, cooked pork should not be refrigerated after five days. The USDA recommends that cooked pork is stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Is it Alright to Consume Cooked Pork that has been Refrigerated?
Yes, it is alright to consume cooked pork that has been refrigerated as long as it was stored correctly and is within its recommended shelf-life. However, if the cooked pork appears to have an off odor or discoloration, you should discard it right away.
Is Cooked Pork that has Sat Out All Night Safe to Savor?
No, cooked pork that has sat out all night is not safe to savor. Cooked pork should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and should never be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can You Eat Pork After Five Days?
No, pork should not be eaten after five days. Most types of cooked pork can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator, while ham and pork roast can last for 5-7 days.
What Happens if I Accidentally Eat Spoiled Pork?
Consuming spoiled pork can have a number of adverse effects. Eating bad pork may cause vomiting, nausea, fever, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming cooked pork that has been stored for longer than the recommended period, seek medical attention right away.
How Long After Eating Bad Pork Will I Get Sick?
It really depends on the individual and how much spoiled pork they have ingested. Generally, it may take anywhere from 12-24 hours after consuming bad pork before symptoms start to appear.
Can I Cook Bacteria Out of Pork?
No, it is not possible to cook bacteria out of pork. If the pork has already been contaminated with bacteria, cooking it won’t be enough to make it safe to eat. It’s vital to always practice food safety measures and store cooked pork properly in order to ensure the food remains safe for consumption.
Final Thought
In conclusion, the answer to the question of how long does cooked pork last in the fridge varies depending on a variety of factors. Typically, cooked pork should be properly stored in the fridge and consumed within four days for maximum freshness and flavor. If you want a longer shelf-life, consider other storage methods like freezing.
When properly stored and handled, cooked pork is one of the most nutritious foods you can make and share with family and friends. With these thoughtful tips, you will have no problem keeping your dish fresh, delicious and safe to eat.
