Can you eat refrigerated cooked chicken a month old?

Food Safety Guidelines:

* Refrigerated cooked chicken should be consumed within 3-4 days. After this time, the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illness increases significantly.

* The USDA recommends discarding cooked chicken after 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Why You Shouldn't Eat Old Chicken:

* Bacterial growth: Cooked chicken is susceptible to bacterial growth, even in the refrigerator. Bacteria can multiply rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F.

* Foodborne illness: Consuming contaminated chicken can lead to foodborne illnesses such as salmonella, campylobacter, and E. coli.

Signs of Spoiled Chicken:

* Off odor: Cooked chicken should have a mild, pleasant odor. A sour, rancid, or foul odor indicates spoilage.

* Slimy texture: The surface of the chicken may become slimy or sticky.

* Discoloration: The chicken may turn gray or green, indicating spoilage.

Conclusion:

It is unsafe to eat refrigerated cooked chicken that is a month old. It is essential to follow food safety guidelines and discard cooked chicken after 3-4 days in the refrigerator to prevent foodborne illness.