How Long Does Food Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator? Find Out Here!

Are you looking to plan meals ahead and effectively minimize food waste? Understanding how long your everyday food items last in the fridge is key. The following guide will help you adopt proper storage practices, plan meals efficiently, reduce waste, and ensure your food remains safe to eat.

How to Refrigerate Dairy Products

1. Milk and Cream: Once opened, milk and cream typically last 5-7 days. Unopened, they can stay fresh up to a week past the "sell by" date. Always store them at the back of the fridge where it is coldest.
   
2. Cheese: Hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss can last 3-4 weeks after opening, while softer cheeses such as brie and feta are best consumed within 1-2 weeks. Shredded cheese usually remains fresh for about a month.
   
3. Yogurt: Sealed yogurt can last up to two weeks past its expiration date, but once opened, it should be consumed within a week.

How to Refrigerate Meats and Seafood

1. Raw Poultry: Raw chicken and turkey should be cooked or frozen within 1-2 days of refrigeration.
   
2. Raw Red Meat: Beef, pork, and lamb can stay fresh for 3-5 days. Ground meats should be used within 1-2 days.
   
3. Seafood: Fish and shellfish are best when used within 1-2 days of purchase. Oily fish like salmon and mackerel spoil faster than lean fish like cod and haddock.
   
4. Cooked Meats and Seafood: Leftovers should be consumed within 3-4 days. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria.

How to Refrigerate Fruits and Vegetables

1. Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and other greens are best consumed within a week. To extend their freshness, store them in airtight containers or produce bags.
   
2. Berries and Melons: Strawberries, blueberries, and other berries last about a week. Melons, once cut, should be consumed within 3-4 days.
   
3. Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and beets can last several weeks to a couple of months in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer.

How to Refrigerate Prepared Foods and Leftovers

1. Cooked Pasta and Grains: These should be consumed within 3-5 days. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
   
2. Soups and Stews: Homemade soups and stews can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always store them in airtight containers to avoid contamination and maintain flavor.
   
3. Deli Meats: Packaged lunch meats last about two weeks unopened but should be eaten within 3-5 days once opened. Freshly sliced deli meats should be consumed within 3-5 days.

How to Refrigerate Condiments and Sauces

1. Ketchup, Mustard, and Mayonnaise: These condiments can last up to six months in the refrigerator once opened. Always check for changes in texture or smell to ensure they are still good.
   
2. Salad Dressings: Vinaigrette-based dressings can last up to a year, while creamy dressings should be used within 1-2 months of opening.
   
3. Jams and Preserves: These can last several months to a year once opened. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination.