How long does food last in the refrigerator?

At Kiwilimón, we know that for our readers, avoiding food waste is very important, as it is not only an issue that affects the environment, but also our wallets. So today we will tackle the problem at its root and explain to you how long food lasts in the refrigerator, so nothing goes bad. Take note!You can also read: How long does a cake last in the refrigerator?How long does food last in the refrigerator?It’s common to open the refrigerator and find a multitude of containers and Tupperware filled with rice, beans, stews, sauces, and much more. Although these leftovers can solve meals for several days, the reality is that often they spoil after a few days. To prevent this from happening to you again, pay close attention to the following information. Leftovers and prepared foodThe United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that leftovers or prepared food should be used within “3 to 4 days” after cooking, as even if you keep everything refrigerated, it can still spoil. Furthermore, this authority emphasizes that “refrigeration slows down, but does not stop the growth of bacteria.”On the other hand, the USDA mentions that we should not be complacent and think that putting food in the refrigerator will keep it fresh for weeks, as there are bacteria that grow at low temperatures. Likewise, there are bacteria that develop and flourish in the cold, such as Listeria.Specific foodsNow that you know that prepared food only lasts between 3 and 4 days in the refrigerator, you probably want to know the shelf life of various ingredients and specific dishes, so we researched what the experts from the Department of Health and Human Services of the United States say.Read more: What foods should not be stored in the refrigerator?Salads with protein or pasta: Lasts between 3 and 4 days and should not be frozen.Cooked or smoked deli meats: This type of product includes sausages, which can be enjoyed for up to 1 week, as long as they are refrigerated.Raw deli meats: Raw meat requires careful handling, so you can only consume chorizo and other types of raw deli meats between 1 and 2 days after opening the package.Bacon: Will stay fresh for up to one week, and if frozen, can be consumed up to 1 month later.Ham: The ham you buy at the supermarket stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you buy it loose at the store, consume it within 3 to 5 days after purchase.Chicken: If you have raw chicken in the refrigerator, consume it within 1 to 2 days after purchase. However, if it’s frozen, you can eat it up to a year later.Fish: Once refrigerated, consume within 1 to 3 days.Shrimp: Eat within 3 to 5 days after purchasing.Egg: This basic kitchen ingredient stays fresh in refrigeration for 3 to 5 weeks.Cooked red meat or chicken: Consume within 3 to 4 days after refrigerating.Pizza: If you saved pizza leftovers in the refrigerator, they can be consumed within 3 to 4 days.Stews with vegetables: Typical meat and vegetable stews can be eaten within 3 to 4 days after refrigeration.Now that you know how long ingredients and prepared foods last in the refrigerator, you can bring more order to your kitchen and thus avoid waste.See also: How to remove fish odor from the refrigerator?