Knowing how long your food will last in the fridge is a crucial part of maintaining a healthy and safe diet.

By understanding the shelf life of different foods and how to store them properly, you can save money, prevent waste, and avoid getting sick from spoiled or contaminated food. In this guide, we will go through some of the most common foods and provide you with a general idea of how long they can last in the fridge.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are some of the most commonly used items in the kitchen, but they are also some of the most perishable. The following are some of the most common dairy products and how long they can last in the fridge:.

Milk

Unopened milk can last for up to a week in the fridge, while opened milk should be consumed within three to five days.

Cheese

Cheese can vary in terms of shelf life depending on the type. Hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can last for several weeks in the fridge, while softer cheeses like brie or camembert should be eaten within a week to prevent spoilage.

Always check the expiration date on the package and follow storage instructions.

Yogurt

Unopened yogurt typically lasts for up to two weeks in the fridge, while opened yogurt should be consumed within a week.

Meat and Seafood

Meat and seafood are some of the most perishable foods and should always be handled with care. Proper storage is key to preventing spoilage and contamination. The following are some common meats and seafood and how long they can last in the fridge:.

Chicken

Fresh chicken should be cooked or frozen within two days of purchase. Cooked chicken can last for up to four days in the fridge.

Beef

Raw beef can last for up to five days in the fridge, while cooked beef can last for up to four days.

Pork

Raw pork can last for up to three days in the fridge, while cooked pork can last for up to four days.

Fish

Fresh fish should be cooked or frozen within two days of purchase. Cooked fish can last for up to three days in the fridge.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, but they can also spoil quickly if not stored properly. The following are some common fruits and vegetables and how long they can last in the fridge:.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach or lettuce can last for up to a week in the fridge if stored properly. To extend their shelf life, wrap them in paper towels or a clean cloth and place them in a plastic bag.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges or lemons can last for up to a week in the fridge.

Berries

Berries like strawberries or blueberries can last for up to five days in the fridge.

Leftovers

Leftovers are a great way to save money and reduce waste, but they can also spoil quickly if not stored properly. Follow these guidelines to ensure that your leftovers stay safe to eat:.