Last Updated on October 4, 2022 by Lauren Beck
Ground turkey is a versatile and healthy alternative to ground beef. It’s perfect for making burgers, meatloaf, tacos, and more. But how long does ground turkey last in the fridge?
According to the USDA, ground turkey that has been properly stored in the fridge will be safe to eat for 1-2 days. If you’re not sure how long your ground turkey has been in the fridge, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
How Long Does Raw Ground Turkey Last After the Sell-by Date?
Raw ground turkey can last in the fridge for one to two days after the sell-by date. After that, it is no longer safe to eat. Cooked ground turkey will last in the fridge for three to four days.
How Long Can Raw Ground Turkey Be Left at Room Temperature?
Raw ground turkey should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
How Long Does Raw Ground Turkey Last in the Freezer?
If you won’t be able to use your ground turkey within two days, you can freeze it. Raw ground turkey will last in the freezer for up to four months. Cooked ground turkey will last in the freezer for two to six months.
When frozen, ground turkey should be used within four months for the best quality.
How Long Does Raw Ground Turkey Last After Being Frozen and Thawed?
Once thawed, raw ground turkey should be used within one to two days. It is not safe to refreeze thawed ground turkey.
How Long Does Ground Turkey Last in the Fridge Once It Is Cooked?
Cooked ground turkey will last in the fridge for three to four days. It should be properly stored in a sealed container or wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
When reheating, make sure that the ground turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Tell if Raw Ground Turkey Is Bad?
Here are a few signs that your ground turkey has gone bad:
- Color: Fresh ground turkey is pink with white marbling. If it has turned gray or brown, it is no longer safe to eat.
- Smell: Raw ground turkey should have a mild, gamey smell. If it smells sour or rancid, it has gone bad and should be thrown out.
- Texture: Fresh ground turkey is moist and slightly sticky. If it is dry or crumbly, it has gone bad.
If you’re unsure whether or not ground turkey has gone bad, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
When in doubt, throw it out!
What Happens if I Eat Spoiled Ground Turkey?
Eating spoiled ground turkey can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. If you experience these symptoms after eating ground turkey, seek medical attention immediately.
Food poisoning can be very dangerous, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Is It Okay to Eat Ground Turkey After the Expiry Day?
The expiry date is the last day that the manufacturer guarantees the ground turkey will be at its best. After this date, the quality of the ground turkey will start to decline. However, it does not mean that the ground turkey is no longer safe to eat.
If stored properly, ground turkey can be safe to eat for up to two days after the expiry date. However, it’s always best to check the ground turkey before eating it to make sure that it is still fresh.
How To Store Ground Turkey?
You should store ground turkey in the fridge in a sealed container or wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. If you plan on freezing the ground turkey, make sure to freeze it within two days of buying it.
Ground turkey can be frozen for up to four months. Once thawed, it should be used within one to two days.
When storing ground turkey, make sure to keep it away from raw meat and poultry. Raw meat and poultry can contaminate the ground turkey and cause food poisoning.
What Do You Need To Do To Defrost Ground Turkey?
There are three safe ways to defrost ground turkey [1]:
- In the fridge: This is the best way to defrost ground turkey as it prevents the growth of bacteria. Place the ground turkey in a sealed container or wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. It will take about 24 hours to defrost one pound of ground turkey.
- In cold water: Place the ground turkey in a sealed container or wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. It will take about two hours to defrost one pound of ground turkey.
- In the microwave: This is the fastest way to defrost ground turkey, but it should only be used for small amounts of ground turkey. Place the ground turkey in a microwave-safe dish and defrost on the “defrost” setting. Stop the microwave every few minutes to check the ground turkey and make sure it is thawing evenly.
Do not try to defrost ground turkey at room temperature. This can cause bacteria to grow and make the ground turkey unsafe to eat.
Conclusion
So, how long does ground turkey stay good in the fridge? If stored properly, ground turkey will last for one to two days after the expiry date. However, it’s always best to check the ground turkey before eating it to make sure that it is still fresh. When in doubt, throw it out!
Reference:
- https://www.wikihow.com/Thaw-Ground-Turkey
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