Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic favorite, with tender, smoky pork paired with coleslaw or barbecue sauce on a bun. Pre-made pulled pork can be a convenient option when you don’t have time to slow-cook pork shoulder yourself. Jack Daniel’s pulled pork is a popular pre-made variety, using whiskey in the braising liquid. But with any perishable food, it’s important to pay attention to expiration dates. So does Jack Daniel’s pulled pork have an expiration date, and how can you tell if it has gone bad?
Overview of Jack Daniel’s Pulled Pork
Jack Daniel’s pulled pork starts with pork shoulder that is seasoned and braised in a mixture of Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey and barbecue sauce. This infuses the meat with savory, smoky flavor. The pork shoulder is cooked until fall-apart tender, then shredded into bite-size pieces.
Many grocery stores sell Jack Daniel’s pulled pork in the meat section, where it is kept cold. It comes packaged in plastic containers or bags. Depending on the item, it may already be fully cooked or need to be finished on the grill or in the oven.
Does Pre-Made Pulled Pork Expire?
Yes, pre-made pulled pork does expire and has a limited shelf life. Like any perishable food, pulled pork contains bacteria that can multiply over time, causing the pork to spoil. Properly storing pulled pork and observing expiration dates reduces the risk of foodborne illness
The USDA says that cooked pork leftovers should be thrown away after 3 to 4 days in the fridge. How long pre-made pulled pork will last depends on the ingredients, how it was processed, and how it was packaged. But in general, commercially prepared pulled pork lasts about:
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Unopened Up to 2 weeks past the printed “use by” date in the refrigerator.
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After opening: 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
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In the freezer: 2-3 months in a sealed container if frozen before the “use by” date.
So Jack Daniel’s pulled pork does have an expiration date printed on the package that you should follow for food safety. Discard any leftovers within 3-5 days after opening. And if the pork has been in the fridge for over 2 weeks or looks or smells questionable, it’s better to be safe than sorry and toss it out.
How to Tell if Jack Daniel’s Pulled Pork Has Gone Bad
It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of spoilage because Jack Daniel’s pulled pork goes bad quickly. Here are some signs that pulled pork that has already been cooked has gone bad:
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Slimy texture: Spoiled pulled pork will have a slimy, mushy texture rather than being tender and shredded.
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Discoloration: Fresh pulled pork is tan or light pink. Grayish, greenish, or brownish discoloration indicates spoilage.
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Off odor: Rancid, sour, or ammonia-like odors mean pulled pork has spoiled.
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Mold: Mold colonies growing on the surface of the pork or packaging is a definite sign of spoilage. Discard moldy pork.
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Expired date: If the date printed on the package has passed, discard the pulled pork even if it still looks and smells normal.
When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out.” Don’t taste questionable pulled pork to determine if it’s still good. Playing it safe can prevent a nasty case of food poisoning.
Proper Storage of Jack Daniel’s Pulled Pork
To get the most shelf life out of pre-made pulled pork like Jack Daniel’s brand, proper storage is key. Follow these tips:
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Refrigerate pulled pork immediately after purchase. Keep it stored at 40°F or below.
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Seal the original package tightly or transfer to an airtight container. This prevents drying out.
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Use within 2 weeks for unopened packages or 3-5 days after opening. Discard any leftovers after that.
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Label containers with the date opened. This makes it easier to track shelf life.
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Freeze extra pulled pork if you won’t use it in time. It will keep for 2-3 months frozen.
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Defrost frozen pork in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Defrost only what you plan to use immediately and don’t refreeze any leftovers after defrosting.
Following safe food handling practices helps pulled pork stay fresh as long as possible. But it’s still important check expiration dates and look for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when unopened Jack Daniel’s pulled pork goes bad?
Check the “use by” date printed on the package. Unopened, it should last around 2 weeks past this date when properly refrigerated. Discard if the date has passed or if the package looks swollen or is leaking.
Does cooking Jack Daniel’s pulled pork extend the shelf life?
Proper cooking destroys any bacteria present originally. But cooking doesn’t prevent future bacteria growth over time. Cooked pulled pork stored in the fridge still only lasts 3-5 days.
Can I freeze Jack Daniel’s pulled pork after opening the package?
It’s best to freeze unopened packages of pulled pork rather than trying to freeze pork after opening. If freezing after opening, use within 2-3 months for best quality.
How do I reheat Jack Daniel’s pulled pork safely?
Defrost frozen pulled pork in the fridge before reheating. Reheat to 165°F on the stove, in the microwave, or in a 325°F oven until hot throughout. Bring gravy or sauce to a boil when reheating.
What happens if I eat spoiled pulled pork?
Consuming spoiled pulled pork can cause foodborne illness, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. See a doctor if symptoms are severe or last more than a day or two.
The Bottom Line
Pre-made pulled pork like Jack Daniel’s brand does have a limited shelf life and should be discarded once expired. But following safe food handling and storage tips can prolong the shelf life of unopened packages to up to 2 weeks past the printed date. Once opened, use Jack Daniel’s pulled pork within 3-5 days. Check for signs of spoilage and don’t take chances with questionable pork. When stored properly in the fridge or freezer, Jack Daniel’s delicious pulled pork can be enjoyed safely up until its expiration date.
