How Long Do Brats Last In The Fridge? Ultimate Guide to Freshness

Bratwurst—this savory, flavorful German sausage—has a special place in my kitchen. Whether I’m grilling, pan-searing, or simmering it, bratwurst can take any meal to the next level. It’s the kind of food that instantly makes a meal feel like a celebration, especially when shared with friends or family. But like any great dish, the question always pops up once you’ve got leftovers or bought in bulk: How long do brats last in the fridge?

If you’re anything like me, you want to make sure that your bratwurst stays fresh and safe to eat without sacrificing any of that delicious flavor. But how do you store it properly? And how do you know when it’s no longer good to eat? This is where things can get a little tricky.

In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the shelf life of bratwurst in the fridge, from the right way to store it to how to spot the signs it’s gone bad. By the end, you’ll have all the tips you need to keep your brats tasting fresh and safe, so you never have to waste a single delicious bite!

How Long Are Brats Good For In The Fridge?

Unopened bratwursts or brats can last in the fridge for up to 14 days or 2 weeks. Once opened, they can last for 1 to 2 days as with other uncooked sausages.

The shelf life of bratwurst [1] in the fridge depends on several factors, such as whether they are cooked or raw, how they are stored, and the type of packaging they are in.

Take note that these are only guidelines, and the actual shelf life can vary depending on various factors. 

Before eating them, make sure the brats are free of any signs of spoilage before eating them. This includes a sour smell, slimy texture, or discoloration.

Read: How Long Is Italian Sausage Good For In The Fridge?

Can You Freeze Bratwurst?

Yes, you can freeze bratwurst to extend its shelf life. Freezing is an effective way to keep brats fresh for extended periods, and it’s relatively easy to do. 

To freeze brats, placing them in an airtight container or a freezer bag is best. You have to make sure to remove as much air as possible. Proper packaging helps to prevent freezer burn, which can damage the texture and flavor of the brats. 

“Laws are like sausages, it is better not to see them being made.”

– Otto von Bismarck, Former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Prussia

To keep track of how long bratwurst will stay frozen, be sure to label the packaging with the date and type. 

Frozen brats can last up to two to three months in the freezer and can be defrosted in the fridge or microwave or by placing them in cold water. 

Brats may not be as juicy or tender after freezing as they would be when fresh, so keep that in mind.

Read: How To Tell If Sausage Is Cooked?

Signs That Your Brats Might Have Gone Bad

1. Foul Odor: If the brats have a sour or rotten odor, they are likely spoiled and should be discarded.
2. Slimy Texture: Spoiled brats may have a slimy or sticky texture. Fresh brats should have a firm texture and feel slightly dry to the touch.
3. Discoloration: If the brats have turned grey or brown, it’s a sign that they have started to spoil.
4. Mold: If you see any signs of mold [2] on the brats, it’s a clear indication that they have gone bad and should not be consumed.
5. Expired Date: If the brats have passed their expiration date, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard them.

Check out: Is Pork Sausage the Same as Ground Pork?

How To Prepare Brats

1. Grilling: Grilling is a popular way to prepare brats, giving them a delicious smoky flavor. Heat the grill to medium heat and place the brats on the grill grates, turning them occasionally until they are browned on all sides.
2. Pan-Frying: Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to cook brats. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the brats in the skillet and cook them, occasionally turning, until they are browned on all sides.
3. Boiling: Boiling is another popular method for cooking brats. Place the brats in a pot of boiling water and cook them for 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked through.
4. Baking: Baking is a simple way to cook brats in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the brats on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the brats are cooked through.

Read: How Long Are Johnsonville Brats Good For In The Fridge?

Tips On How To Store Bratwurst Properly

1. Refrigerate promptly: After purchasing or cooking bratwurst, refrigerate it immediately at a temperature of 40°F or below. You need to refrigerate brats within two hours of cooking or purchase them within one hour if the temperature is above 90°F.
2. Use airtight containers: Store bratwurst in airtight containers or plastic wrap to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can cause them to spoil faster.
3. Store raw and cooked separately: Keep raw and cooked bratwurst separate to avoid cross-contamination. Store them in different containers, and use different utensils for handling them.
4. Label and date: Label and date the packaging with the date of purchase or the date of cooking. This helps you track how long the brats have been stored and when they need to be used.
5. Freeze if not using soon: If you’re not planning to use the brats within a few days, freeze them to extend their shelf life.
6. Thaw properly: If you’re thawing frozen brats, do it in the fridge or cold water. Never thaw brats at room temperature or warm water, as this can promote bacterial growth.

FAQs on How Long Do Brats Last In The Fridge

Final Thoughts

Bratwurst can be a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. Store them properly to maintain their quality and to make sure they are safe to eat. 

Brats can last in the fridge for up to fourteen days if stored properly, but you need to check them for any signs of spoilage before consuming them. 

Following proper storage and preparation techniques, you can enjoy delicious and safe bratwurst for any occasion.

References:

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/bratwurst
2. https://www.webmd.com/lung/mold-mildew