How do you keep fresh chicken?

Before You Even Bring It Home:

* Choose wisely: Select chicken that feels cold and firm, not slimy or discolored. Check the "use by" or "sell by" dates.

* Pack properly: Bring a cooler bag with ice packs to transport chicken from the store.

Once You're Home:

* Refrigerate ASAP: Place chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator (usually the bottom shelf) within two hours of purchase.

* Storage: Store chicken on a plate or in a container to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.

* Don't overcrowd: Give your chicken room to breathe. Avoid stacking it on top of other items.

How Long Can You Keep It?

* Refrigerator: Uncooked chicken can safely stay in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

* Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen chicken can last 2-9 months in the freezer.

Important Safety Tips:

* Never refreeze thawed chicken.

* Thaw chicken safely: Thaw in the refrigerator, in cold water (change water every 30 minutes), or in the microwave (if using microwave, cook immediately after).

* Cook thoroughly: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria.

* Wash hands and surfaces: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken. Disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with the chicken.

Additional Notes:

* Marinades: Marinate chicken in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.

* Vacuum-sealed: If you buy vacuum-sealed chicken, follow storage instructions on the packaging.

* Don't smell for freshness: Smelling chicken isn't a reliable indicator of freshness. Rely on the "use by" date and your visual inspection.

Remember: When in doubt, throw it out! It's better to be safe than sorry.