The Shelf Life of Pork Fat: How Long It Lasts In The Fridge

As a home cook who loves using pork fat for frying, baking, and flavoring all kinds of dishes, I’m often asked how long pork fat lasts in the fridge. With so much conflicting information out there, it can be confusing to know just how long you can safely store pork fat before it goes bad.

In this article, I’ll provide a definitive guide to maximizing the shelf life of different types of pork fat and how to know when it’s time to toss it out. Let’s dive in!

An Overview of Pork Fat Types

There are a few main kinds of pork fat that are used in cooking

• Raw fatback – The thick, unrendered layer of fat attached to a pig’s back Used for lard and flavoring

• Lard – The rendered and strained fat from fatback. Used for frying and baking.

• Bacon grease – The leftover fat drippings from cooking bacon. Used for flavoring.

Each type has its own ideal storage methods and shelf life, which we’ll explore next.

How Long Does Raw Fatback Last In The Fridge?

When properly stored, raw fatback can last 3-7 days in the refrigerator depending on the source. According to The Spruce Eats, fatback lasts 4-5 days when tightly wrapped in plastic. However, some butchers claim up to 7 days shelf life if vacuum sealed.

The takeaway is fatback’s shelf life depends on storage and its freshness when purchased. If it was already aged a few days before you bought it, expect a shorter fridge life of 3-4 days.

What Is The Shelf Life of Lard In The Fridge?

Rendered lard can last significantly longer than raw fatback in the fridge. Properly stored in an airtight container, lard will last 4-6 months refrigerated. The freezer extends its shelf life even longer to 1-3 years.

One thing that might happen is that lard might become more crumbly and dry if it is kept in the fridge for a long time. Freezing is best for maintaining its consistency.

How Long Does Bacon Grease Last?

Like lard, bacon grease can have an extended shelf life. For up to 6 months, store it in the fridge in a container that won’t let air in. Bacon grease can be kept in the freezer for up to a year before it starts to lose its quality.

Storing Pork Fat For Maximum Freshness

To get the longest shelf life from pork fat, follow these storage tips:

• Keep fat in a tightly sealed container or bag.
• Refrigerate promptly after rendering or opening.
• Freeze for long-term storage to maintain freshness.
• If freezing, allow space in container for expansion.
• Store away from light to prevent oxidation.

With proper storage, you can keep pork fat on hand for months and avoid waste!

How To Tell If Pork Fat Has Spoiled

Despite best storage methods, pork fat can still go bad. Watch for these signs:

• Rancid smell – Strong, unpleasant odor indicates spoilage.

• Change in color – Grayish, brownish, or creamy hue is a red flag.

• Slimy texture – Greasy, sticky, or tacky fat has likely spoiled.

• Mold – Any fuzzy growth means pork fat must be discarded.

When in doubt, remember the old saying “When in doubt, throw it out!” Don’t risk eating rancid pork fat.

Tips For Using Up Leftover Pork Fat

To avoid waste, use up leftover pork fat in these ways:

• Render into lard – Melt down fatback or bacon ends into pure lard.

• Saute vegetables – Fry up greens, potatoes, etc. in bacon grease.

• Flavored cooking oil – Use as the oil for stir fries, eggs, etc.

• Make confit – Cook meat submerged in hot rendered fat.

• Add richness to dishes – Whip into mashed potatoes, soups, etc.

With proper storage, you can enjoy pork fat for months. But once it does go off, be sure to discard it promptly and safely. Your nose knows! With my pork fat freshness guide, you can maximize shelf life without the health risks.