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How long does raw pork last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
4 days
3-5 days from purchase
Freezer
6 months
Chops 4-6 months; ground 3-4 months
The short answer
Raw Pork lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Uncooked pork chops, roasts. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if raw pork is bad
- Slimy surface
- Sour or ammonia smell
- Gray-brown color (some browning normal)
Storage tips
- Coldest part of fridge
- Plate underneath catches drips
- Cook to 145°F internal
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Frequently asked questions
How long does raw pork last in the refrigerator?
Raw Pork lasts 4 days in the refrigerator. 3-5 days from purchase
How long does raw pork last in the freezer?
Raw Pork lasts 6 months in the freezer. Chops 4-6 months; ground 3-4 months
How can you tell if raw pork is bad?
Watch for: Slimy surface; Sour or ammonia smell; Gray-brown color (some browning normal).