Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 hours
1 hour if above 90°F
In the fridgeFridge
1 week
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
1 month
at 0°F; quality, not safety
On the counterCounter
Not recommended
keep it cold
In the fridgeFridge
1 week
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
1 month
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Bacon lasts 1 week in the fridge and 1 month in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if bacon is bad
Smell
Sour or rancid smell instead of smoky or salty.
Texture
Slick, slimy surface on slices or links.
Colour
Grey, green or iridescent patches that spread.
Mould
Fuzzy spots on sliced or cooked products — discard.
Bacon past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened bacon 1 week in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 1 week in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep bacon fresh longer
- Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, even though it is cured.
- Once opened, rewrap tightly or move to an airtight container.
- Use within the opened window regardless of the package date.
More about bacon
FAQ
How long does it take for bacon to go bad?
1 week in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper. At room temperature, 2 hours.
Can bacon expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened bacon 1 week in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad bacon?
Spoiled perishable food can cause food poisoning: nausea, vomiting, cramps or diarrhoea. See a doctor if symptoms are severe or last more than a few days.
How do you keep bacon from going bad?
Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, even though it is cured.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number