Keep Chicken Fresh: Best Fridge Storage Tips

Raw chicken is highly susceptible to bacterial growth, with the CDC estimating that one in 25 packages may be contaminated by Salmonella. To prevent contamination and spoilage, it is crucial to follow proper storage procedures, such as refrigerating chicken within 2 hours of purchase and storing it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the bottom shelf. Additionally, raw chicken should be kept in its original packaging or an airtight container to prevent leakage and placed on a plate or bowl to catch any accidental drips. For longer storage, freezing raw chicken in airtight containers or heavy-duty packaging can extend its shelf life up to 9 months for pieces and 1 year for a whole bird.

Use the original packaging and place it on the lowest shelf of the fridge

When storing raw chicken, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging. This helps to prevent juices from the chicken from leaking out and contaminating other foods in your fridge. To further prevent leaks, you can place the packaged chicken in a disposable bag or airtight container.

Once you have packaged your chicken securely, it is important to place it on the lowest shelf of your fridge. This is because the front of the fridge tends to be the warmest, as cold air escapes every time the fridge door is opened. By placing the chicken on the bottom shelf, you also reduce the risk of juices dripping onto other foods.

It is also recommended to store raw chicken at the back of the fridge, as this is typically the coldest area. This helps to keep the chicken fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible.

When placing raw chicken on the bottom shelf of your fridge, ensure that it is not sitting directly on top of any other food items. This allows for proper air circulation and helps to keep the chicken cool.

By following these guidelines and placing the original packaging of raw chicken on the lowest shelf of the fridge, you can help maintain food safety and reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

Prevent leaks by using airtight containers or bags

When storing raw chicken, it is important to prevent leaks and drips to avoid contaminating other food items in the fridge. One way to do this is by using airtight containers or bags.

If you are storing raw chicken that has been removed from its original packaging, transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. You can use a container made of glass or plastic, or a Ziploc bag. Make sure the container has a tight-fitting lid to prevent leaks. Place the container on a plate or in a bowl to provide an extra layer of protection in case of leaks.

If you are storing a whole raw chicken or raw chicken parts that are still in their original packaging, it is recommended to keep them in their original packaging. However, if the package is leaking, you can place it in an airtight container or bag. You can also overwrap the package with airtight heavy-duty foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper for added protection.

Always store raw chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent juices from dripping onto other food items. Clear a space for the chicken on the bottom shelf and use a plate to avoid leaks. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent leaks and maintain food safety when storing raw chicken in the fridge.

Refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase to prevent bacterial growth

Raw chicken should be refrigerated within 2 hours of purchase to prevent bacterial growth. According to the CDC, about one million people get sick from contaminated chicken each year. Therefore, proper storage is essential to keep the chicken fresh and safe.

When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging. This helps to prevent the juices from contaminating other foods in the fridge. If the original package is leaking, transfer the chicken to an airtight container or bag. Additionally, placing the package on a plate or in a bowl can help catch any stray drips.

It is important to always store raw chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge. This is because the front of the fridge tends to be warmer, and placing it on a higher shelf increases the risk of juices leaking onto other foods. Raw chicken should also be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).

To further prevent bacterial growth, raw chicken should be cooked or frozen within 1 to 2 days of purchase. Freezing raw chicken extends its shelf life to 9 months for pieces and 1 year for a whole bird. When freezing, it is recommended to use the original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container or bag to prevent freezer burn and ice crystal formation.

Raw chicken should be cooked or frozen within 1-2 days of purchase

When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it is important to follow proper food safety procedures. Firstly, always store raw chicken in its original packaging. This helps to prevent the juices from contaminating other foods in the fridge. Place the packaged chicken in a disposable bag or airtight container to catch any leaks and place it on the bottom shelf of the fridge, as this is the coldest area. The front of the fridge tends to be warmer due to the escape of cold air every time the door is opened.

Additionally, raw chicken should be refrigerated within 2 hours of purchase to prevent bacterial growth. It is recommended to set the refrigerator temperature to 40°F (4°C) or below. Before handling raw chicken, it is crucial to practice good hygiene by wearing gloves or washing your hands for at least 20 seconds afterward to prevent cross-contamination.

If you choose to freeze your raw chicken, it can be stored for up to 9 months for pieces and 1 year for a whole bird. To ensure optimal freshness and prevent freezer burn, wrap the original package in airtight heavy-duty foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper, or place it inside a plastic bag before putting it in the freezer.

Signs of spoilage: slimy, shiny, dull, or gray appearance and a foul smell

Raw chicken should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C or 40°F or below. It should be placed on the bottom shelf to prevent any leakage from dripping onto other foods. It is also recommended to use a plate or a plastic bag to store the chicken.

Signs of Spoilage

Raw chicken that has spoiled will have a slimy, sticky, or tacky texture. It will also have a foul, sour, pungent, or sulfur-like smell, similar to rotten eggs. The colour of the chicken may also change, turning dull, grey, or even green and yellow. If the fat on the chicken has turned yellow, this is also a sign of spoilage.

The slime on the chicken is a clear indicator that it has gone bad. Even after rinsing the chicken under water, if the slime remains, the chicken is spoiled. The smell test may be slightly subjective, as people's sense of smell varies. However, a strong, unpleasant odour is a sign of spoilage.

The colour of spoiled chicken may vary, but it often loses its pinkish hue and turns dull and grey. Sometimes, the discolouration may be more drastic, turning green or yellow, which is a clear sign of spoilage.

Frequently asked questions