Safe handling of pork is essential. Here’s a simple list of how-to’s.
Making Ahead
Never brown or partially cook meat for later.
Leftovers
Never eat pork that has been sitting on the counter for more than 1-2 hours.
Only store leftovers in the coldest part of the refrigerator and for no more than 4-5 days.
Follow this simple rule: “When in doubt,...
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Safe handling of pork is essential. Here’s a simple list of how-to’s.
Making Ahead
Never brown or partially cook meat for later.
Leftovers
Never eat pork that has been sitting on the counter for more than 1-2 hours.
Only store leftovers in the coldest part of the refrigerator and for no more than 4-5 days.
Follow this simple rule: “When in doubt, throw it out.”
Thawing
The best way to defrost pork is in the fridge in its wrapping. Follow these guidelines.
Small roast: 3-5 hrs/lb
Large roast: 4-7 hrs/lb
One-inch thick chop: 12-14 hrs
Ground pork needs to be estimated by package thickness
Microwave thawing? Sure thing. Follow the microwave manufacturer’s guidelines. Just be sure to cook meat immediately after microwave thawing.
Storing
In the refrigerator: sealed, pre-packed fresh pork cuts can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-4 days. Sealed ground pork will keep for 1-2 days. Ham and other smoked products keep for 3-4 days while luncheon meats, dogs and bacon can be kept for up to 7 days.
In the freezer: well-wrapped fresh cuts like chops, roasts and tenderloins can be kept for up to 6 months. Well-wrapped ground pork is good in the freezer for 3 months.
While you can refreeze pork once it is thawed, it may lose some quality due to the moisture lost through defrosting.