Did the chicken spoil? See how long it lasts in the fridge (raw or prepared) –

Chicken is considered a staple meat in many households. However, this healthy and delicious source of protein has a high risk of bacterial contamination. That’s why it’s important to prepare, store and cook it properly – otherwise it can become a source of illness.

Storing chicken in the refrigerator is convenient, but many people may wonder how long they can safely refrigerate chicken.

HOW LONG DOES CHICKEN LAST IN THE REFRIGERATOR?

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), raw chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for approximately 1 to 2 days. The same applies to raw turkey and other poultry.

Already, cooked chicken can last in the fridge for approximately 3 to 4 days.

Storing chicken in the fridge helps slow bacterial growth, as bacteria tend to grow more slowly at temperatures below 4°C.

Additionally, raw chicken is best stored in a leak-proof container to prevent its juices from leaking out and contaminating other foods. Cooked chicken should be refrigerated in an airtight container.

If you need to store chicken longer than that, it’s best to store it in the freezer.

Raw chicken pieces can be stored in the freezer for up to 9 months, while a whole chicken can be frozen for up to 1 year. Cooked chicken can be stored in the freezer for 2 to 6 months.

HOW TO KNOW IF CHICKEN IS SPOILED

If you’ve left the chicken in the fridge for more than a few days, chances are it’s gone bad.

Below are some ways to tell if the chicken in your fridge has gone bad:

Color changes: the raw and cooked chicken that is starting to turn a gray-green color is spoiled. Gray to green mold spots indicate bacterial growth.
Smell: Both raw and cooked chicken give off an acidic smell reminiscent of ammonia when it spoils. However, it can be difficult to notice this smell if the chicken has been marinated with sauces, herbs or seasonings.
Texture: Slimy textured chicken spoiled. Washing the chicken will not destroy the bacteria.

If you suspect the chicken in your fridge has gone bad, discard it.

RISKS OF EATING SPOILED CHICKEN

Chicken is at high risk of causing food poisoning as it can be contaminated with bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella and others.

Normally, these bacteria are eliminated when you cook fresh chicken thoroughly.

However, you still need to avoid cooking and eating rotten chicken. While reheating or cooking can kill surface bacteria, it does not eliminate some of the toxins produced by the bacteria, which can cause food poisoning if you eat them.

Food poisoning can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms, including high fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stools, and dehydration.

In some cases, severe food poisoning can require hospitalization and even lead to death.