How long does Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated last after opening?
Deli & Prepared Foods
USDA FoodKeeper does not list a storage time for Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated after opening.
Use the full storage table below to compare pantry, refrigerator, freezer, and opened-package guidance.
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Safe Storage Table
| Storage method | FoodKeeper guidance |
|---|---|
| Pantry | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Pantry after opening | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Refrigerator | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Refrigerator after opening | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Refrigerator after thawing | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Freezer | 2-3 months |
| Package date pantry | No FoodKeeper time listed |
| Package date refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Package date freezer | No FoodKeeper time listed |
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper Data. Direct JSON feed: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/shared/data/EN/foodkeeper.json.
FAQ
How long does Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated last?
Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated: 3-4 days in the fridge.
Can you freeze Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated?
Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated: 2-3 months in the freezer.
What should I do if Main dishes or meals, hot or refrigerated looks or smells off?
Discard it. Storage times are guidelines, and USDA FoodKeeper notes can vary by item; when in doubt, throw it out.