How Long Is Pork Loin Good For In The Fridge? Explained

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Knowing how long to keep food in the fridge is crucial for ensuring food safety, particularly when it comes to pork. If it is not stored and handled properly, pork can spoil rapidly.

If you’re wondering how long pork loin is good for in the fridge, you’ve come to the right place. 

We’ll discuss the shelf life of pork loin and the best ways to store it for maximum freshness. You’ll also learn the signs that pork loin has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat.

How Long Will Pork Loin Last in The Fridge?

Pork loin can last up to five days in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, it is best to use the pork loin within three to four days of purchase for maximum freshness. 

To ensure that your pork loin stays fresh, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic or aluminum foil and stored in the coldest part of the fridge.

To extend the life of your pork loin, it can be frozen for up to four months.

To freeze the pork loin, it should be tightly wrapped in plastic or aluminum foil, placed in an airtight container, and stored in the freezer. 

When ready to use, the pork loin should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight and cooked immediately.

Pork loin that has been frozen and thawed can last up to five days in the refrigerator after thawing but should be cooked and consumed within that time frame.

Read:

• How Long Does Pork Belly Last In The Fridge?
• How To Cook Kroger Shaved Pork?
• What Is A Pork Shoulder Blade Roast?
• Why Are Pork Ribs Pink When Cooked?
• How Long Will Stuffing Last In The Fridge?

How Long Will It Last If Left Out?

A pork loin [1] should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. After that, it can become hazardous to eat due to the growth of bacteria. If the pork loin is cooked, it should be consumed within 4 hours of being left out. 

In general, it is best to refrigerate the cooked pork loin within 2 hours of cooking, and it should be consumed within 3-4 days. 

“ If I had to narrow my choice of meats down to one for the rest of my life, I am quite certain that meat would be pork.”

– James Beard, American Chef

If the pork loin is uncooked, it should be kept refrigerated until it is ready to be cooked and should be consumed within 2-3 days.

Read: How Long Are Porkchops Good In The Freezer?

Signs That Your Pork Loin Might Have Gone Bad

• Unusual smell: If your pork loin gives off an unpleasant odor, it has likely gone bad. 
• Discoloration: Pork that has gone bad will often have discolored spots, ranging from gray to green to brown. 
• Slimy texture: If your pork has a slimy texture, it is a sure sign that it has gone bad. 
• Mold: If you see any mold on your pork loin, it is best to throw it away. 
• Unusual texture: If your pork loin feels hard or rubbery, it is likely past its prime and should be thrown away.

Read: What To Do With Pork Fat Trimmings?

Tips On How To Store Pork Loin

1. Wrap the pork loin tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This will help keep the pork loin from drying out. 
2. Place the wrapped pork loin in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will help prevent any cross-contamination from other foods in your fridge. 
3. Store the pork loin in the coldest part of your refrigerator (usually the back or bottom shelf). 
4. Use the pork loin within three to four days of purchase. 
5. If you do not use the pork loin within three to four days, freeze it for up to three months. 
6. When ready to use the pork loin, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. 
7. When cooking the pork loin, always use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the appropriate temperature.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, pork loin is good in the fridge for up to 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic or foil. 

To avoid cross-contamination [2], it is important to ensure the meat is stored at the proper temperature and kept away from raw foods. 

Eating pork loin past its expiration date can cause food-borne illnesses, so if in doubt, it is best to throw it out.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/21766/roasted-pork-loin/
2. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/events-meetings/food-safety-education-month-preventing-cross-contamination