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How long does sausage last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
2 days
Raw — 1-2 days; cooked 7 days
After opening
1 week
Cooked sausage, refrigerated
Freezer
2 months
1-2 months raw; 2-3 months cooked
The short answer
Sausage 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
Ground meat in casings. 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 sausage is bad
- Slimy
- Sour smell
- Color changes
Storage tips
- Cook raw sausage to 160°F
- Cooked links freeze well
- Italian/breakfast sausage = same rules
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Frequently asked questions
How long does sausage last in the refrigerator?
Sausage lasts 2 days in the refrigerator. Raw — 1-2 days; cooked 7 days
How long does sausage last in the after opening?
Sausage lasts 1 week in the after opening. Cooked sausage, refrigerated
How long does sausage last in the freezer?
Sausage lasts 2 months in the freezer. 1-2 months raw; 2-3 months cooked
How can you tell if sausage is bad?
Watch for: Slimy; Sour smell; Color changes.