Do you know how many days you can store meat or milk in the refrigerator without losing quality? This guide shows you the ideal storage times to avoid risks.
Properly storing food in the refrigerator or freezer not only prevents food poisoning but also helps reduce food waste and optimizes pantry utilization.
Knowing how long products like milk, eggs, meat, fish, soups, and cooked vegetables last can make a difference to your health and your wallet.
Recommended shelf life of refrigerated and frozen foods.
Milk
Pasteurized (refrigerated): 5 to 7 days after opening, always kept at 4°C or below.
UHT (ultra-pasteurized): Up to 6 months unopened at room temperature. Once opened, consume within 3 to 5 days.
Can milk be frozen?
Yes. Although it may separate when thawed, it’s still safe. It can be stored for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze it in small portions and leave room in the container, as it expands.
Eggs
Fresh in shell (refrigerated): 3 to 5 weeks. It’s recommended to keep them in their original packaging, in the center of the refrigerator.
Frozen (without shell): Whites and yolks can be stored for up to 1 year, provided they are stored in airtight containers.
Raw fish
- Refrigerated: Consume within 1 to 2 days of purchase.
- Frozen: Up to 3 months for white fish and 2 months for fatty fish (like salmon). Storing it in the coldest part of the world and a sealed container is key.
Fresh meat
Refrigerated:
- Beef and pork: 3 to 5 days
- Chicken or turkey: 1 to 2 days
Frozen:
- Res: up to 12 months
- Whole chicken: 12 months
- Chicken parts: 9 months
- Ground beef: 3 to 4 months
Always store in well-sealed containers, preferably at the bottom of the refrigerator, to avoid cross-contamination.
Mayonnaise
Once opened, the jar should be kept refrigerated and will last for 1 to 2 months. Always check the color, smell, and texture before consuming.
Cooked vegetables
Refrigerated: 3 to 5 days if stored in airtight containers.
Frozen: They can last 2 to 3 months if chilled beforehand and frozen in portions.
Soups and broths
In refrigeration: 3 to 4 days.
Frozen: Up to 3 months. It’s essential to let them cool completely before freezing.