Summer is a time for barbecues, picnics, and outdoor parties. With all of this fun comes a lot of food, and it is important to know how long certain foods can be stored safely.

In this article, we will discuss different types of summer food and their shelf life.

Meat

Meat is often the main course at summer barbecues. Burgers, hot dogs, steaks, and chicken are all popular choices, but they also have a limited shelf life. Raw meat should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2-4 days.

Cooked meat can last up to 4 days in the fridge. If you have leftovers, it is important to reheat them properly to at least 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have grown.

Seafood

Summer is also a popular time for seafood. Shrimp, crab, lobster, and fish are all delicious options, but they are also highly perishable. Raw seafood should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days.

Cooked seafood can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. If you are storing seafood, make sure it is in an airtight container to prevent any bacteria from getting in.

Dairy Products

Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and sour cream are often served at summer parties. These products have a longer shelf life than meat and seafood, but they still need to be stored properly.

Cheese can last up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator as long as it is wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. Yogurt can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge, and sour cream can last up to 3 weeks. It is important to check the expiration date on these products and discard them if they are past their prime.

Fruits and Vegetables

Summer is a great time for fresh fruits and vegetables. Berries, melons, tomatoes, and corn are all delicious options. However, these foods need to be stored properly to prevent spoilage.

Most fruits should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-5 days. Melons can last up to a week if stored in the fridge. Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature, but they will only last for a few days. Corn on the cob should be used within 1-2 days of being picked.

Baked Goods

Summer is a time for pies, cakes, and other baked goods. These items typically have a shorter shelf life than other types of food. Most cakes and pies should be consumed within 2-3 days of being baked.

Cookies and brownies can last up to a week if stored in an airtight container.

Beverages

Summer is also a time for refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, and soda. These items have a longer shelf life than food, but they still need to be consumed before they expire.

Most sodas and other carbonated beverages will last for several months if left unopened. However, once they are opened, they should be consumed within a few days. Iced tea and lemonade should be consumed within 3-5 days of being brewed.

Canned Goods

Canned fruits, vegetables, and other goods are often used in summer recipes. These items have a long shelf life and can be stored for several months without spoiling.

However, it is important to check the expiration date on the cans and discard them if they are past their prime.

Conclusion

Summer is a time for fun and food, but it is important to know how to store and consume different types of food safely. Meat and seafood have a short shelf life and should be consumed within a few days of being cooked or purchased.

Dairy products, fruits, and vegetables have a longer shelf life but still need to be stored properly. Baked goods and beverages have a shorter shelf life than other types of food and should be consumed within a few days. Canned goods have a long shelf life but should still be checked for expiration dates.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your summer food remains safe and delicious.