How long does pork last in the fridge?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- Chops & roasts: 3–5 days · Ground: 1–2 days · Cooked: 3–4 days
- In the freezer
- Chops & roasts: 4–12 months · Ground: 3–4 months
Sources: FoodSafety.gov — Cold Food Storage Chart · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Raw pork lasts 3–5 days in the fridge at 4°C or below, similar to beef. Ground pork is shorter at 1–2 days because of the larger surface area. Cooked pork keeps 3–4 days refrigerated in a sealed container. Bacon keeps about a week in the fridge thanks to the salt. Frozen pork chops and roasts keep their quality 4–12 months; ground pork 3–4 months. Color can shift toward greyish-brown without being bad — smell is the decisive signal.
How to store pork
Store raw pork on the bottom shelf of the fridge in a sealed container or its original tray on a plate, below 4°C. Cured and smoked products (bacon, ham, sausage) can go on a higher shelf in their original sealed packaging. Freeze the day you buy raw pork if you won't cook within 3–5 days; vacuum-sealing extends frozen quality significantly. Thaw in the fridge overnight, never on the counter. Cooked pork goes in a sealed container within 2 hours.
- Bottom shelf in a sealed container
- Below 4°C
- Cured products in original sealed packaging higher in fridge
- Freeze the day of purchase if not cooking within 3–5 days
- Thaw overnight in fridge
Signs it has gone bad
- Sour, ammonia, or sulfurous smell
- Sticky or slimy surface
- Greenish or grey-tinged color (not just normal browning)
- Slime when rinsed
Frequently asked questions
How long does raw pork last in the fridge?
Raw pork lasts 3–5 days at or below 4°C; ground pork only 1–2 days. Cure or freeze if you won't cook in time.
How long does cooked pork last?
Cooked pork keeps 3–4 days in a sealed container in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Can you freeze pork?
Yes — chops and roasts 4–12 months, ground 3–4 months. Vacuum-seal or wrap tightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight.