The refrigerator is a staple in most households, providing a convenient and safe way to store perishable food items. Among the many foods that can be stored in the refrigerator, raw chicken is one of the most common. However, it’s essential to know how long raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator to ensure food safety and prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
Raw chicken is a high-risk food item that can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter. These bacteria can cause serious illness, even death, if consumed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year, approximately 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick from foodborne illnesses, with raw chicken being one of the most common sources of these illnesses.
Given the risks associated with raw chicken, it’s crucial to understand the proper storage and handling procedures to minimize the risk of contamination. One of the most critical factors in ensuring the safety of raw chicken is the length of time it can be stored in the refrigerator. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines for storing raw chicken in the refrigerator and provide tips on how to keep your chicken safe and fresh for as long as possible.
Guidelines for Storing Raw Chicken in the Refrigerator
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that raw chicken be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. It’s essential to ensure that your refrigerator is set at the correct temperature, as bacteria can grow rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
The USDA also recommends that raw chicken be stored in a covered container at the bottom of the refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination with other foods. It’s also important to keep raw chicken away from ready-to-eat foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to prevent the risk of contamination.
Refrigerator Storage Time for Raw Chicken
The length of time raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator depends on several factors, including the storage conditions, the type of chicken, and the handling practices. Generally, raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for:
| Storage Conditions | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken | 1-2 days |
| Chicken parts (e.g., breasts, thighs, wings) | 1-3 days |
| Ground chicken | 1-2 days |
| Chicken broth or stock | 3-5 days |
It’s essential to note that these storage times are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific storage conditions and handling practices. If you’re unsure about the storage time for your raw chicken, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Handling and Preparation of Raw Chicken
In addition to proper storage, it’s crucial to handle and prepare raw chicken safely to minimize the risk of contamination. Here are some tips to help you handle and prepare raw chicken safely:
Handling Raw Chicken
When handling raw chicken, it’s essential to:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw chicken.
- Use clean and sanitized utensils and cutting boards when handling raw chicken.
- Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw chicken from other foods in the refrigerator and during preparation.
- Keep raw chicken and its juices away from ready-to-eat foods to prevent contamination.
Preparation of Raw Chicken
When preparing raw chicken, it’s essential to:
- Cook raw chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature.
- Avoid overcrowding the cooking surface, as this can lead to undercooked or raw areas.
- Refrigerate cooked chicken promptly and store it at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Recall and Disposal of Raw Chicken
If you’re unsure about the safety of your raw chicken or if it’s past its storage time, it’s essential to recall and dispose of it promptly. Here are some tips to help you recall and dispose of raw chicken safely:
Recalling Raw Chicken
If you’re unsure about the safety of your raw chicken, it’s essential to:
- Check the “Sell By” or “Use By” date on the packaging to ensure that it’s within the recommended storage time.
- Check the chicken for any visible signs of spoilage, such as off-odors, slimy texture, or mold growth.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
Disposal of Raw Chicken
If you’ve recalled raw chicken, it’s essential to dispose of it promptly and safely. Here are some tips to help you dispose of raw chicken safely:
- Wrap the raw chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent leakage.
- Place the wrapped raw chicken in a sealed bag or airtight container to prevent odors and contamination.
- Discard the raw chicken in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid to prevent animals from accessing it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s essential to understand the proper storage and handling procedures for raw chicken to ensure food safety and prevent the risk of foodborne illness. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can minimize the risk of contamination and keep your raw chicken safe and fresh for as long as possible. Remember to always check the storage time, handling practices, and preparation methods to ensure that your raw chicken is safe to consume.
Recap and Key Points
Here are the key points to remember when it comes to storing raw chicken in the refrigerator:
- Raw chicken should be stored in a covered container at the bottom of the refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination.
- Raw chicken should be stored at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days for whole chicken, 1-3 days for chicken parts, and 1-2 days for ground chicken.
- Raw chicken should be handled and prepared safely to minimize the risk of contamination.
- Raw chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
FAQs
How long can I store raw chicken in the refrigerator?
You can store raw chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 days for whole chicken, 1-3 days for chicken parts, and 1-2 days for ground chicken. However, it’s essential to check the storage time and handling practices to ensure that your raw chicken is safe to consume.
Can I store raw chicken in the freezer?
Yes, you can store raw chicken in the freezer for up to 12 months. However, it’s essential to wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn and contamination.
How do I handle raw chicken safely?
To handle raw chicken safely, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw chicken. Use clean and sanitized utensils and cutting boards, and avoid cross-contamination by separating raw chicken from other foods in the refrigerator and during preparation.
Can I cook raw chicken to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) instead of 165°F (74°C)?
No, it’s not recommended to cook raw chicken to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) instead of 165°F (74°C). Cooking raw chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures that it is safe to consume and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
Can I store raw chicken at room temperature?
No, it’s not recommended to store raw chicken at room temperature. Raw chicken should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure food safety.