Pork is one of the most commonly consumed types of meat in Vietnam. Many Vietnamese homemakers tend to buy pork in large quantities for storage. However, even when refrigerated, pork has a limited shelf life.
How long can refrigerated pork be safely consumed?
Even when stored in the cold section of the refrigerator, pork has a finite lifespan. So, how long does pork last in the fridge? (Image credit: Tasty)
According to experts, if you store pork in the chiller compartment of your refrigerator, maintain a temperature setting of around 3-5 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, pork can retain its freshness and nutritional value for about 5 days. After this period, the meat will start to turn pale, and mold may appear, indicating a loss of nutrients. It is best to discard the meat at this point rather than risk consuming it.
If you choose to freeze the pork, its shelf life will be extended. The longevity of frozen pork also depends on its source and quality. Fresh pork purchased from traditional markets can be stored for about a month, while frozen pork from supermarkets can be kept for up to 3 months.
It is not recommended to consume pork that has been frozen for more than six months, as the meat will eventually turn brown and may produce harmful substances.
Important considerations for safe pork consumption
Avoid buying pre-ground pork: Ground pork is often made from leftover scraps, and it can be challenging to distinguish between good and bad quality meat. Additionally, sellers of ground pork may not pay close attention to cleaning the meat and equipment before grinding, potentially leading to hygiene issues. If stored for an extended period, harmful bacteria can proliferate, posing health risks.
Opt for pork with a fresh, pink hue and look for certified products to ensure safety. (Image credit: Tasty)
Refrain from purchasing pork without certification: It is crucial to avoid buying pork that does not have a certification stamp, as it may come from sick pigs and pose a significant health risk.
Be wary of dark-colored pork: Fresh and high-quality pork typically exhibits a bright red color. If the meat is excessively dark, it could indicate that the pig was sick, and the blood did not have sufficient time to drain from the body, resulting in discolored meat that may even appear bruised. The dark color could also be a sign of improper storage, prolonged storage, or spoilage.
On the other hand, pale-colored pork may have been previously frozen or injected with water, so it is advisable to avoid such meat.
Contrary to popular belief, washing pork before refrigeration does not improve its safety. In fact, doing so reduces its shelf life. Therefore, if you intend to consume the pork within a short period, there is no need to wash it with water.
Source: VTC news