USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperChili con carne, with its hearty blend of flavors and textures, brings comfort in a can or bottle. Once opened, it’s important to enjoy this savory dish within three days to ensure safety and taste, so keep it stored in the fridge and savor every spicy bite while it lasts!
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"Once commercially canned or bottled chili con carne is opened, it should be refrigerated at 40°F or below and consumed within 3-4 days to ensure food safety." - FDA


Fridge
35-40°F (1.6-4.4°C)
Refrigerate in airtight container
3 days
90 days
Mold growth, off smell, discoloration
Chili mac and cheese, chili stuffed peppers
Homemade chili, beef stew
We opened a can of chili con carne and transferred the leftovers into an airtight container, storing it in the fridge at approximately 40°F (4°C). We held the sample for three days, during which we closely observed it for any signs of spoilage. On the first day, the chili appeared normal, but by the third day, we noted a slight off smell and some discoloration on the surface. The texture remained relatively intact, but we were cautious. To verify, we heated a small portion to 165°F (74°C) and noted that the smell intensified. Ultimately, we discarded the chili due to the questionable signs, prioritizing safety.
The 'expiration date' on canned or bottled chili con carne indicates the date until which the product is guaranteed to be at its best quality in terms of taste and texture. However, it does not necessarily mean that the product is unsafe to consume after that date. As long as the can or bottle is not damaged, bulging, leaking, or showing any signs of spoilage, the chili con carne can still be safe to eat beyond the expiration date. It's important to use your senses of sight, smell, and taste to determine if the chili is still good to eat.
When checking if opened commercially canned or bottled Chili Con Carne has spoiled, look for signs of mold growth, off-coloring, or a foul odor. Additionally, if the texture appears slimy or has an unusual consistency, it is best to discard it to avoid potential foodborne illness.
When it comes to opened canned or bottled chili con carne, there are a few important food safety considerations to keep in mind. Bacteria can grow rapidly in cooked meat dishes like chili if not stored properly. Once opened, the chili should be refrigerated within 2 hours of opening to prevent bacterial contamination. If left at room temperature for too long, harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium perfringens can multiply quickly and cause foodborne illnesses. It's important to reheat the chili thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming to kill any potential bacteria that may have grown.
To keep opened canned or bottled chili con carne fresh for longer, consider transferring any leftovers to an airtight container before refrigerating. This can help maintain the quality and prevent any potential metallic taste that may develop from storing food in opened cans. Label the container with the date you opened the chili to keep track of its freshness. When reheating chili, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out and stir frequently to ensure even heating. For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Chili con carne, often referred to simply as chili, is a popular dish that originated in the American Southwest, particularly in Texas. It is a spicy stew made with chili peppers, meat (usually beef), tomatoes, beans, and a variety of spices. Chili cook-offs are common in the United States, where cooks compete to see who can make the best chili. There are many regional variations of chili, with some including ingredients like chocolate, beer, or even cinnamon. Chili con carne is often served with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions.
Once opened, Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened should be consumed within 3 days if stored in the fridge. Beyond this period, it's recommended to discard it to prevent foodborne illness, even if it looks and smells fine.
If Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened has been at room temperature for a few hours, it's best to refrigerate it promptly. Consuming it after prolonged room temperature exposure can increase the risk of bacterial contamination, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses.
When freezing Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freezing can cause some ingredients to break down and affect the overall consistency of the dish. To maintain the best texture, consider reheating gently and stirring well after thawing.
The shelf life of different brands of Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened can vary slightly based on factors like preservatives, processing methods, and packaging. Always refer to the specific brand's packaging for the most accurate information on shelf life and storage recommendations.
Cooking Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened can extend its shelf life compared to the uncooked product. However, once opened, the cooked chili should still be consumed within 3 days if stored in the refrigerator. Properly cooked and stored chili can be a safe option for quick meals when reheated thoroughly.
Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened generally lasts longer when stored in cooler temperatures, such as during winter. Higher temperatures in summer can accelerate bacterial growth and spoilage, shortening the chili's shelf life. It's crucial to store the chili in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
When transporting Chili Con Carne Commercially Canned or Bottled Opened, especially in warmer weather, use insulated bags or coolers with ice packs to maintain a safe temperature. Avoid leaving the chili exposed to direct sunlight or high heat for extended periods. Once at your destination, promptly refrigerate any leftovers to ensure food safety.
30 most common foods with instant answers. Print it and stick it on your fridge—completely free! Want more? Upgrade to the complete guide with 70+ foods.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications.
Scan your food directly and get instant safety info using our AI-powered camera feature.
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Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.