Can We Store Raw Chicken in Fridge For 7 Days?

The articles answer all the confusion about storing raw chicken and whether you can store raw chicken in Fridge for 7 days. Dishes served with fresh and raw chicken are delectable. While most of us are aware of preserving cooked chicken, we typically do not achieve success when we attempt to preserve raw chicken in the fridge. We generally end up with foul-smelling and ruined chicken merely after a few days of putting it in the freezer or the refrigerator. So, how to store raw chicken in the fridge for 7 days or more?

Chicken and other meats have a reputation for being a “food safety nightmare.” Raw chicken is known to include a bacterium called “salmonella,” which may cause food poisoning if not kept or cooked correctly. So, when we are not cautious with handling raw chicken, there are great possibilities of indigestion.

Fortunately, storing chicken is not at all complicated. To get started, all you need to do is discover a few guidelines that will help you keep and cook your chicken effectively!

Table of Contents

Can I Store Raw Chicken in Fridge For 7 Days?

If you consider storing raw chicken in the fridge for 7 days, think twice! In my opinion, this is not right. The shelf life of a raw chicken is 1–2 days in the refrigerator, whereas the shelf life of a cooked chicken is 3–4 days. Check the “best if used by” date on the chicken and look for symptoms of spoilage such as changes in smell, texture, and color to determine whether the chicken is rotten. Unless thoroughly cooked, avoid eating rotten chicken since it might lead to food illness.

Can I cook if we Place Raw Chicken in Fridge For 7 Days?

Just be sure to keep track of how long the chicken has been sitting in the fridge for. According to the USDA, cooked chicken may be kept in the fridge for three to four days if stored correctly (in a ziplock storage bag or other tightly sealed containers). That applies to any form of cooked chicken, whether it’s store-bought, homemade, or leftover from a restaurant.

How to Tell If the Raw Chicken in Your Fridge Is Bad?

Listed below are four indicators that the chicken is no longer fit for consumption:

1. It has importantly passed its best-before date.

If you’re not sure whether or not the chicken is still safe to eat, checking the best-by date is a good place to begin your investigation.

The best-by date on a food package does not represent a mystical limit by which food begins to spoil the moment it crosses the line into that period. It’s just a piece of equipment. The way the chicken was kept in the supermarket, as well as the way you’ve stored it at home, are both important factors. Chicken that has passed its best-by date may be completely OK, whereas chicken that has not yet given its best-by date may be questionable.

However, it is unquestionably an excellent location to begin your search. It would help if you also inquired how long the chicken has been sitting in your refrigerator. If you can’t recall, or if it’s been many days since the best-by date, it’s better to throw it out.

2. The flesh is greyish in color rather than pink.

The meat of fresh chicken should be pinkish. The degree of the pinkness might fluctuate, and that is quite normal. It is not acceptable to have grey flesh. If it’s a grey color, throw it away.

It is common for the raw chicken to exhibit certain color variations. Discoloration to grey or darkening of specific areas, on the other hand, indicates spoiling.

Freezer burn appears as woody white areas on raw chicken that have been frozen and thawed many times. The white pieces should be removed and discarded in this situation, but for the finest flavor, leave them on.

3. It has a rotting or simply… odd scent about it.

Let’s face it; raw chicken does not smell that appetizing. Unfortunately, there are no raw chicken-scented candles available on the market.

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On the other hand, Raw chicken should not have a foul odor. Ammonia smells strong, as does the stench of decaying eggs, suggesting that the chicken has gone bad. It has to go in the trash!

4. It has a slimy texture.

It is typical for the chicken to have a slimy texture to it. No, that is not the case. If you touch the chicken and it feels unnaturally slimy, sticky, or tacky, throw it out immediately. After that, thoroughly wash your hands.

What Should I Do if I Eat Bad Chicken?

In the majority of instances, symptoms resulting from the consumption of raw chicken tend to resolve on their own without the necessity for medical intervention. It’s crucial for affected individuals to focus on hydration, particularly if they are encountering symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Here are some key points to consider:

Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to counteract dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea.
Water Consumption: Water is a primary choice for replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes after exposure to harmful elements.
Electrolyte Balance: Replacing electrolytes is vital, and options like sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions can aid in restoring electrolyte balance.
Rest and Recovery: Allowing the body adequate rest is crucial to support the natural recovery process.
Medical Attention: While most cases resolve on their own, severe symptoms or persistent issues may warrant medical attention.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These substances can contribute to dehydration and may exacerbate symptoms.
BRAT Diet: Introducing the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) can help soothe the digestive system.
Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close eye on symptoms and seek medical advice if they worsen or persist.

It’s essential to recognize that while self-care measures can be effective, seeking medical advice is crucial for severe or prolonged symptoms to ensure appropriate intervention and care.

Does Cooking Bad Chicken Kill Bacteria?

Cooking chicken, poultry, and meat thoroughly is crucial for destroying harmful bacteria and ensuring food safety. Failure to cook these items adequately may lead to illness if consumed. Here are key points to elaborate on:

Proper Cooking Destroys Bacteria: Thorough cooking is effective in destroying bacteria present in raw chicken, poultry, and meat. Adequate cooking temperatures ensure the elimination of harmful microorganisms.
Risk of Consuming Undercooked Meat: Consuming meat that is served raw or undercooked poses a significant risk of foodborne illness. Proper cooking practices are essential to safeguard against potential health hazards.
Common Bacteria in Raw Fowl: Campylobacter is a prevalent bacteria found in the vast majority of raw fowl. This bacterium can cause gastrointestinal infections if the meat is not properly cooked.
Other Bacteria Present: In addition to Campylobacter, raw chicken may harbor other harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Clostridium perfringens. These bacteria can lead to severe foodborne illnesses.
Importance of Cooking Temperatures: Following recommended cooking temperatures is crucial to ensure that all parts of the meat, including the innermost areas, reach temperatures sufficient to kill harmful bacteria.
Food Safety Measures: Practicing proper food safety measures, such as avoiding cross-contamination and using separate utensils for raw and cooked items, further reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Health Risks of Undercooked Meat: Consuming undercooked meat can lead to various health issues, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and in severe cases, more serious complications.
Educating on Cooking Practices: Raising awareness about the importance of proper cooking practices and food safety measures is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses associated with the consumption of raw or undercooked meat.

By emphasizing the significance of thorough cooking and implementing food safety measures, individuals can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of the meals they prepare.

What Does Bad Chicken Look Like?

Determining the edibility of cooked chicken involves relying on your senses to identify any signs of spoilage. Here are key indicators that chicken may have gone bad:

Unpleasant Smells: A strong and unpleasant odor, different from the usual cooked chicken aroma, is a clear indication that the meat may be spoiled.
Slimy Texture: If the cooked chicken feels slimy or excessively sticky to the touch, it suggests a breakdown in the meat’s texture and could be a sign of spoilage.
Color Changes: While freshly cooked chicken typically appears white or brown, any noticeable color change to grey, greenish, or the presence of mold indicates spoilage.
Off-Putting Odors: Off-putting or sour smells emanating from the chicken are a warning sign and should prompt caution before consumption.
Changes in Appearance: Visual inspection is crucial. Any unusual changes in the appearance, such as an unnatural sheen, discoloration, or the presence of unusual spots, should be considered potential spoilage indicators.
Mold Growth: The presence of mold on the chicken is a clear sign that it has deteriorated. Mold can appear as fuzzy spots or patches on the surface of the meat.
Texture Changes: If the chicken has an altered texture, such as being excessively mushy or tough, it may indicate spoilage due to bacterial growth.
Use-by Date: Always check the use-by date on the packaging. If the cooked chicken has exceeded this date, it’s advisable to err on the side of caution and discard it.

In cases where any of these signs are observed, it is strongly recommended to avoid consuming chicken, as spoiled meat can pose health risks. Trusting your senses and practicing proper food safety measures are essential to ensuring the quality and safety of the food you consume.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, it is generally not recommended to store raw chicken in the fridge for seven days. The recommended storage time for raw chicken in the refrigerator is typically around 1-2 days to ensure food safety and maintain its quality. After this time, the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage increases significantly. It’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines and discard any raw chicken that has been stored for too long or shows signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or slimy texture.

To extend the storage time of raw chicken, consider freezing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. This will help maintain its quality and safety for a longer period. Always remember to thaw frozen chicken properly in the refrigerator before cooking.

FAQs

How should I store raw chicken in the fridge to maximize freshness?

Store raw chicken in its original packaging or a sealed container to prevent cross-contamination. Place it on the bottom shelf of the fridge to avoid drips onto other foods.

What signs indicate that raw chicken has gone bad?

Look for changes in color, unusual odors, or slimy textures. If the chicken has an off-putting smell or appearance, it’s best to discard it.

Can I extend the shelf life of raw chicken by freezing it?

Yes, freezing is an excellent way to prolong the shelf life of raw chicken. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Is it safe to consume raw chicken that has been in the fridge for 7 days if it still looks and smells fine?

While appearance and odor are indicators, bacteria may still be present. It’s advisable to follow recommended storage times to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.