Delicious, juicy pulled pork is a favorite for all kinds of events, whether it’s family dinners or tailgates. One thing that keeps many people from making pulled pork, however, is the fear that it won’t keep very long in the fridge and will spoil quickly. But how long does pulled pork last in the refrigerator? Find out all you need to know and give yourself peace of mind knowing your delicious dish can be enjoyed over several days!
What is Pulled Pork?
Pulled pork is made by slow-cooking a cut of meat, usually pork shoulder or Boston butt. Traditionally, the meat is cooked over low heat until it’s so tender that it can be “pulled” apart with two forks. The cooked pulled pork can then be enjoyed as-is, or combined with your favorite sauces.
How Long Does Pulled Pork Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored and refrigerated, pulled pork will last for about 3 to 4 days. To store it properly, make sure you tightly cover the leftovers and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If stored this way, pulled pork should remain safe to eat for up to four days.
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How Long is Pulled Pork Good For?
How Long Does Cooked Pulled Pork Last?
Cooked pulled pork will last up to 4 days in the fridge, but you may also freeze it for longer storage. If frozen, cooked pulled pork can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw frozen pulled pork, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stove or in the microwave.
How Long Does Raw Pulled Pork Last?
Raw pulled pork will typically last for about 1 to 2 days in the fridge before it needs to be cooked or discarded. It is important to store raw pulled pork in an airtight container at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Be sure to cook the pork within a day or two of purchasing and do not leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours.
When properly stored, cooked and raw pulled pork can last several days in the refrigerator so you can enjoy your delicious dish worry-free! Just remember, it’s important to practice proper food safety techniques when handling, storing and consuming any type of meat.
Can You Freeze Pulled Pork?
Yes, pulled pork can be frozen. The best way to freeze is to portion it into individual containers or freezer bags so that you can easily thaw only the amount you need. If stored in an airtight container or resealable bag, the pork will stay fresh up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the meat overnight in your refrigerator and enjoy!
How To Tell If Pulled Pork Is Bad or Spoiled?
When stored properly, pulled pork will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If it looks or smells off after that time period, then it should be discarded. Additionally, if you notice any signs of mold on your meat, discard it immediately as it is no longer safe to eat.
What Happens If You Eat Spoiled Pulled Pork?
If you consume spoiled pulled pork, then it can lead to food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. If you have any of these symptoms after eating spoiled pulled pork, contact your doctor immediately.
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How to Store Pulled Pork Safety
The best way to store pulled pork is in an airtight container in your refrigerator. This will help keep the meat fresh and prevent it from spoiling quickly. Also, be sure not to leave the pork out at room temperature for more than two hours as this can cause bacteria growth. Finally, always practice safe food handling techniques when preparing and consuming any type of meat.
Knowing how long you can store pulled pork safely gives you peace of mind knowing that you can enjoy delicious dishes over several days. As long as you follow proper storage guidelines and discard any spoiled or expired food, then you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite pulled pork recipes without worry!
How to Reheat Pulled Pork
To reheat cooked pulled pork, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a few tablespoons of water or broth. Cook the pork for about 5 minutes until it is heated through. You can also microwave the pulled pork for about 1 minute per cup of meat to reheat quickly and easily. Reheated pulled pork should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consumption.
How to Serve Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is most commonly served as a sandwich on a hamburger bun or sliced bread with your favorite condiments and sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans or macaroni & cheese. It can also be enjoyed alone as a main course dish, added to tacos and burritos, or served on top of a salad.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Store Pulled Pork Last in the Fridge?
1. Not storing pulled pork in an airtight container.
2. Leaving the pork out at room temperature for more than two hours.
3. Not labeling containers with the date when you store them in the fridge.
4. Not checking for signs of spoilage before consuming the pork.
5. Reheating pork to a temperature below 165°F (74°C).
6. Not discarding any expired or spoiled food immediately.
7. Storing pork in the freezer for longer than three months.
FAQs:
How long does cooked pulled pork last in the fridge?
Cooked pulled pork can last 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in your refrigerator.
Can pulled pork be frozen?
Yes, pulled pork can be frozen for up to three months when stored in an airtight container or resealable bag.
How do you reheat pulled pork?
Pulled pork can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat with a few tablespoons of water or broth for about 5 minutes, or microwaved for 1 minute per cup of meat. Make sure the pulled pork reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
How can I serve pulled pork?
Pulled pork is most commonly served as a sandwich on a hamburger bun or sliced bread with your favorite condiments and sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans or macaroni & cheese. It can also be enjoyed alone as a main course dish, added to tacos and burritos, or served on top of a salad.
Can I eat pulled pork after 5 days?
It is not recommended to eat pulled pork after 5 days, as the meat can spoil quickly. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a sour smell or discoloration, and discard any expired or spoiled food immediately. It is always best practice to follow proper storage guidelines and consume cooked meat within 3-4 days.
Can I eat week old pulled pork?
It is not recommended to eat week old pulled pork, as the meat can spoil quickly. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a sour smell or discoloration, and discard any expired or spoiled food immediately. It is always best practice to follow proper storage guidelines and consume cooked meat within 3-4 days.
How do I know if my pulled pork has gone bad?
If your pulled pork has been in the fridge for more than 4 days, it’s best to discard it right away. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell, discoloration or slimy texture on the surface of the meat. If you notice any of these signs when checking your pulled pork, then it is best to discard it right away.
Is pulled pork still good after a week in the fridge?
No, it is not recommended to eat pulled pork after a week in the fridge as the meat can spoil quickly. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a sour smell or discoloration, and discard any expired or spoiled food immediately. It is always best practice to follow proper storage guidelines and consume cooked meat within 3-4 days.
Can I use leftovers from my pulled pork?
Yes, you can use leftovers from your pulled pork for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in your refrigerator. If you are not planning on eating the leftovers within 4 days, you can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Be sure to reheat the pork to 165°F (74°C) before consumption, and discard any expired or spoiled food immediately.
Can I leave pulled pork out overnight?
No, it is not recommended to leave pulled pork out overnight as the meat can spoil quickly. For food safety, cooked meats should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours due to possible bacterial growth. It is best practice to store cooked meat in an airtight container in your refrigerator until ready for consumption. Reheat the pork to at least 165°F (74°C) before consuming and discard any expired or spoiled food immediately.
Conclusion
Pulled pork is a delicious meal to add to your dinner rotation. As long as you handle and store it correctly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to five days. During this time, make sure you reheat it to at least 165°F before consuming and use separate plates and utensils for serving.
In addition, if you wish to freeze leftover pulled pork, seal it properly in an airtight container and enjoy for up to four months. Regardless of the storage method you choose, be extra cautious with refrigerated or frozen meat that exceeds safe times and temperatures due to the potential risks of food poisoning or other food-borne illnesses. Enjoy your pulled pork!
James Burney is the founder of Acadia House Provisions is a restaurant that with local & upscale dishes and high-quality kitchen supplies and food products. James was born and raised in Maine, and he has always been passionate about cooking. After working in a number of prestigious restaurants he started Acadiahouseprovisions.com with the goal develop into a comprehensive information site specializing in cooking and cuisine. His goal is to make it easy for people to cook delicious meals at home without spending a fortune.
