Barbecued pork, also known as BBQ pork, is a delicious staple of summertime grilling. But like any perishable food, it’s important to store BBQ pork properly in the fridge to maximize its shelf life and avoid foodborne illnesses. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how long BBQ pork lasts in the fridge and how to tell when it has gone bad.
How Long Does Leftover BBQ Pork Last in the Fridge?
Leftover BBQ pork that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for 3 to 4 days after cooking. To maximize its shelf life, store BBQ pork in a sealed container to prevent drying out and wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to limit air exposure.
The shelf life depends on a few factors:
- Type of pork – Fresh pork has a shorter fridge life than precooked barbecue pork products like ribs or pulled pork which can last 4-5 days.
- Fridge temperature – BBQ pork lasts longer when kept consistently at 40°F or below.
- Preparation method – Meat that is smoked, cured, or fully cooked lasts longer than freshly grilled pork.
- Exposure to air – Minimizing air exposure by sealing the container extends shelf life.
As a general rule, consume refrigerated leftover BBQ pork within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
How to Tell If BBQ Pork Has Gone Bad
Here are signs that indicate your leftover BBQ pork has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Change in color – Pork turns from pink or white to a greenish, greyish or brownish color when it goes bad.
- Slime formation – Excess shiny or slimy residue on the surface indicates bacterial growth.
- Off odors – Rancid, sour or unpleasant odors mean the pork is no longer fresh.
- Odd textures – Weird clumpy or mushy spots suggest spoilage.
- Mold growth – Fuzzy mold spots visible on the pork marks it as inedible.
- Past expiration date – BBQ pork kept over 5 days in the fridge should not be consumed.
When in doubt, remember the old adage – “When in doubt, throw it out.” Don’t risk getting sick from eating spoiled pork.
Proper Storage of BBQ Pork in the Fridge
Storing barbecue pork correctly helps maintain quality and maximize how long it lasts. Follow these tips:
- Allow BBQ pork to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Putting hot food straight in the fridge can raise the temperature and spoil other foods.
- Place pork in a sealed airtight container or resealable plastic bags. Limit air exposure.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil if not storing in a container.
- Place BBQ pork on a plate or bowl to catch any leaks if not storing in a sealed container.
- Refrigerate pork at 40°F or below as soon as possible after cooking. Do not leave at room temperature for over 2 hours.
- Avoid overcrowding the fridge which reduces air circulation.
- Cooked pork can be stored on the top fridge shelf where temps are cooler.
- Use leftover BBQ pork within 3-4 days for best quality. Freeze for longer storage.
Following proper storage techniques helps BBQ pork stay fresh longer in the refrigerator so you can continue enjoying it.
Safe Handling of Leftover BBQ Pork
To prevent foodborne illnesses when handling leftover barbecue pork:
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after touching pork.
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping BBQ pork away from other foods, especially those eaten raw. Clean any surface the pork touched with hot soapy water.
- Cook thoroughly to safe internal temperatures – 145°F for whole cuts, 160°F for ground pork.
- Do not thaw frozen BBQ pork at room temperature or in hot water. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat fully until steaming hot, at least 165°F internal temperature. Bring sauces to a boil.
- Use within 3-4 days for freshest taste and texture. Discard if you see any signs of spoilage.
- When reheating microwave pork in covered microwave-safe containers, not plastic wrap which can leak.
Following basic food safety practices helps protect you and your loved ones from potential illnesses when enjoying leftover BBQ pork dishes.
Can You Freeze BBQ Pork?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of leftover barbecue pork up to 2-3 months past the printed expiration date. Here are some freezer storage guidelines:
- Allow BBQ pork to cool completely before freezing so it freezes faster.
- Portion pork into airtight freezer bags or containers leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove excess air.
- Add a bit of marinade or sauce to keep pork moist. Avoid adding too much liquid which can cause freezer burn.
- Label bags with contents and freeze-by date.
- Freeze at 0°F or below. Place in coldest part of freezer, not door.
- Once thawed, eat within 3-4 days. Do not refreeze thawed pork.
- For best quality and texture, use frozen BBQ pork within 2-3 months.
Freezing buys you extra time to enjoy your grilled pork meats safely. With proper freezing and thawing methods, frozen barbecue pork stays delicious for months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if BBQ pork is bad?
Check for an off smell, odd texture, sliminess, change in color to grey, green or brown, mold growth or a foul odor. Pork that displays these signs should be discarded.
Can I eat BBQ pork that’s been in the fridge for 5 days?
It’s not recommended. For safety and quality, leftover refrigerated BBQ pork should be eaten within 3-4 days. Pork kept over 5 days has a higher risk of harboring dangerous bacteria.
What is the best way to store leftovers of pulled pork or shredded BBQ pork?
For optimal freshness, place pulled pork in an airtight container with minimal air exposure. Plastic wrap or aluminum foil also locks in moisture. Refrigerate promptly at 40°F or below.
Why does barbecue pork last longer than fresh pork in the fridge?
Precooked BBQ pork products like smoked ribs or pulled pork have a longer shelf life than raw pork because the cooking process kills bacteria responsible for spoilage.
Can you freeze and reheat BBQ pork?
Yes. For best quality, freeze cooked BBQ pork immediately after cooling in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly to 165°F until steaming hot. Bring sauces to a boil when reheating.
Summary
- Refrigerated leftover BBQ pork stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored properly in sealed containers at 40°F or below.
- Look for changes in color, odor, texture and mold growth to determine if barbecue pork has spoiled. Discard pork with any signs of spoilage.
- Allow meats to fully cool before refrigerating. Store BBQ pork in sealed airtight containers.
- Handle cooked pork safely by washing hands, preventing cross-contamination, cooking thoroughly and refrigerating promptly.
- Frozen BBQ pork maintains quality for 2-3 months when frozen at 0°F in airtight packaging with minimal air exposure.
Following proper storage, handling and freezing guidelines allows you to safely keep leftover barbecued pork in the fridge or freezer for later meals. With the right techniques, you can continue enjoying your perfectly grilled pork for days after the barbecue.