How to Tell If Bacon Has Gone Bad: A Guide

Knowing when bacon has gone bad is a tricky business. It is important to familiarize yourself with the signs of spoilage in order to protect your health and safety. Here is a complete guide to understanding when bacon has gone bad, checking for freshness, and storing it correctly.

Signs of Spoiled Bacon

Rancid bacon has a strong, unpleasant odor. If it smells sour, vinegar-like, or otherwise off, it is likely spoiled. You may also notice a change in texture and color. Spoiled bacon will be slimy to the touch and will have a dark grey or green hue. Bacon should always be a pinkish-red hue.

If you are unsure if your bacon is spoiled, it is best to discard it. Spoiled bacon can cause food poisoning and other health issues. If you are cooking bacon, be sure to check it regularly to ensure it is not overcooked. Overcooked bacon can become dry and brittle, and may have a burnt smell.

How to Check for Freshness

When it comes to checking for freshness, your nose is your best friend. As mentioned before, spoiled bacon has a strong, unpleasant odor. If your bacon still has its original packaging, check the “sell-by” date to ensure that it hasn’t expired. If you can’t find the packaging or it doesn’t have a date, use your best judgment.

If you're still unsure, you can also check the color and texture of the bacon. Fresh bacon should be a light pink color and have a slightly firm texture. If the bacon is discolored or has a slimy texture, it's likely spoiled and should be discarded.

The Smell Test

If you’re truly unsure whether your bacon is rotten, it’s best to give it a whiff. When you open the package, take a deep sniff and see if it smells off in any way. If it does, it’s probably gone bad and should be discarded. If it smells normal, it’s likely still edible.

It's important to note that bacon can still be bad even if it smells normal. If the bacon has been sitting in the refrigerator for a long time, it may have gone bad even if it doesn't smell off. If you're unsure, it's best to discard it and buy a new package.

Color and Texture of Spoiled Bacon

The color and texture of spoiled bacon are deal-breakers when it comes to eating it safely. Spoiled bacon will be slimy or sticky to the touch, and will often appear to have dark grey-green spots. If bacon appears this way, discard it immediately.

It is important to note that spoiled bacon will also have a sour smell. If the bacon has an off-putting odor, it is best to throw it away. Additionally, if the bacon has been left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, it should be discarded as well.

What Happens If You Eat Bad Bacon?

If you eat bad bacon, you risk experiencing foodborne illnesses associated with consuming spoiled meats. These can range from nausea, vomiting, and cramping to more serious health risks such as fever and diarrhea. To protect your health, it’s important to inspect your bacon before consuming it.

When inspecting your bacon, look for any discoloration or slimy texture. If the bacon has an off-putting smell, it is likely spoiled and should not be eaten. Additionally, if the bacon has been stored in the refrigerator for more than a week, it is best to discard it. If you are unsure about the freshness of your bacon, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.

Tips for Storing Bacon Correctly

Bacon should always be stored in the refrigerator until it is ready to be cooked. If the bacon is packaged, the “sell-by” date should be checked prior to purchase. Once the bacon is opened, the remaining slices should be kept tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and consumed within four to five days.

It is important to note that bacon should not be stored in the freezer, as this can cause the bacon to become tough and dry. Additionally, bacon should not be stored in the refrigerator for longer than five days, as this can cause the bacon to spoil. If the bacon is not going to be consumed within five days, it is best to cook it and store it in the freezer for later use.

Best Practices for Buying and Using Bacon

When buying bacon, check the package for any signs of spoilage. Make sure that the smell isn’t off and that there aren’t any grey-green spots on the slices. If in doubt, question an employee at the store and ask them to check a fresh batch. When using the bacon, cook it thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

When storing bacon, make sure to keep it in the refrigerator or freezer. If you plan to use the bacon within a few days, it can be stored in the refrigerator. If you plan to use it within a few weeks, it can be stored in the freezer. If you plan to use it after a few weeks, it is best to freeze it and thaw it when you are ready to use it.

Summary of Key Takeaways

Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming bacon. Spoiled bacon will have a strong smell, slimy texture and dark grey-green spots. Storing bacon correctly is just as important as checking for freshness. Keep bacon wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and cook thoroughly to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit before eating.

When cooking bacon, it is important to use a pan with a thick bottom to prevent burning. Additionally, it is best to cook bacon on medium-low heat to ensure that it cooks evenly. If you are using a skillet, it is important to turn the bacon frequently to prevent burning. Finally, it is important to drain the bacon on a paper towel after cooking to remove any excess fat.