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How Long Can Raw Chicken Stay Good in the Fridge?
A Chilling Tale
I remember a time when I had to cook chicken for dinner, and I was rushing around trying to get everything ready. In my haste, I accidentally left the chicken out on the counter for a few hours. When I finally got around to cooking it, I realized that it had started to smell a little funny. I wasn’t sure if it was still safe to eat, so I ended up throwing it away.
I learned my lesson that day: always be careful about how long you leave raw chicken out at room temperature. It can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can make you sick.
Understanding Raw Chicken Storage
Definition: Raw chicken is the flesh of a chicken that has not been cooked. It is a perishable food, meaning that it will spoil if it is not refrigerated or frozen.
History: Chicken has been a staple food in many cultures for centuries. It is believed that the first chickens were domesticated in Southeast Asia over 8,000 years ago.
Meaning: Raw chicken is a versatile food that can be cooked in a variety of ways. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
The Dangers of Raw Chicken
Raw chicken can be contaminated with bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, food poisoning can be serious and even life-threatening.
How Long Can Raw Chicken Stay in the Fridge?
The USDA recommends that raw chicken be refrigerated at 40°F or below for no longer than 2 days. After 2 days, the chicken should be cooked or frozen.
Tips for Safely Storing Raw Chicken
- Always store raw chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator, which is usually the bottom shelf.
- Do not store raw chicken in the door of the refrigerator, as this is the warmest part of the fridge.
- Keep raw chicken away from other foods, to prevent cross-contamination.
- Do not wash raw chicken before cooking it. Washing chicken can spread bacteria around your kitchen.
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill bacteria.
Expert Advice
- According to the USDA, raw chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If you are not going to cook the chicken within 2 days, it should be frozen.
- Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 6 months.
FAQs
Q: Can I store raw chicken in the freezer for longer than 6 months?
A: No, it is not recommended to store raw chicken in the freezer for longer than 6 months. After this time, the chicken may lose its quality and become less safe to eat.
Q: Can I thaw raw chicken in the microwave?
A: Yes, you can thaw raw chicken in the microwave. However, it is important to cook the chicken immediately after thawing it in the microwave.
Conclusion
Raw chicken is a perishable food that should be refrigerated or frozen to prevent spoilage. Raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you are not going to cook the chicken within 2 days, it should be frozen.
Are you interested in learning more about food safety? Check out these resources:
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