How long can chicken be kept in the refrigerator?

Chicken is a familiar food for many families. However, this source of protein has a higher risk of bacterial contamination than many other foods. That is why it is important to prepare, store and cook chicken properly.

According to the health and medical website Healthline (USA), raw and cooked chicken can be stored for a few days to a year, depending on whether it is frozen or refrigerated.

It is important to note that raw chicken is best stored in a leak-proof container to prevent juices from leaking out and contaminating other foods. Cooked chicken should also be refrigerated in an airtight container. If you need to store it for longer than a few days, the freezer is best.

Raw chicken pieces can be frozen for up to 9 months while whole chickens can be frozen for up to a year. Cooked chicken can be frozen for 2-6 months.

How to tell if chicken is spoiled

Color Change: Raw and cooked chicken that begins to turn a grayish-green color is spoiled. Gray to green mold spots indicate bacterial growth.

Smell: Both raw and cooked chicken will give off an ammonia-like odor as it spoils. However, this odor may be less noticeable if the chicken has been marinated in sauces, herbs, or spices.

Loose texture: Chicken with a slimy texture has gone bad. Washing this slimy texture will not kill bacteria. Instead, doing so can spread bacteria from the poultry to other foods, utensils, and surfaces, causing cross-contamination.

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