Chorizo is a delicious type of sausage that is usually made from pork mixed with a range of spices, including paprika which gives it its distinctive colour and taste. This post aims to answer the question ‘how long does chorizo last?’ and what you can do with it if you don’t think you’ll get it used up before it goes bad.

How Long Does Chorizo Last?

Different Types of Chorizo

First of all, there are a few different types of chorizo.

Cured Chorizo – This is what most people will think of when they hear the word ‘chorizo’. These cured sausages are often found on the shop floor.

Although they don’t need to be kept in the fridge until opened, they are sometimes found in supermarket fridges with other deli meats.

Sliced Chorizo – Slicec chorizo is Spanish chorizo that has been sliced and is ready to eat. You’ll often find it at deli counters and in the supermarket fridge section. This type of chorizo is often used as part of a tapas platter or on of top pizzas.

Mexican Chorizo – Mexican chorizo is different to Spanish chorizo in that it hasn’t been cured.

While it does have a similar flavour, the texture is slightly softer and it more like a normal meat sausage. This means that it needs to be kept refrigerated and should always be cooked before eating.

How Long Does Cured Chorizo Sausage Last?

If stored at room temperature then cured chorizo should last for around a month provided it is kept in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. Once opened or cut it should be kept in the fridge.

This also applies to vacuum-sealed chorizo.

How Long Does Chorizo Last In The Fridge?

An unopened chorizo sausage should last for around six months in the fridge provided it’s to opened and the seal and casing remain intact and undamaged.

How Long Does Chorizo Last In The Freezer?

Did you know you can freeze chorizo? Chorizo actually freezes really well and freezing chorizo is a great way to preserve it even further.

Chorizo can be frozen before or after cooking, in slices or as a whole sausage.

Chorizo will last for up to six months in the freezer. After this time it’s safe to defrost and eat but might not quite be the same quality and could be more susceptible to freezer burn. For full instructions on freezing, chorizo see this post from Freezethatfood.com

How Long Does Chorizo Last Once Open or Cut?

Once your chorizo has been cut into, it should be okay for around a month provided it is kept in the fridge. Cut and use as needed rather than cutting up the whole sausage in one go as this will help keep it fresher for longer.

How Long Do Chorizo Slices Last?

Once purchased chorizo slices should be kept in the fridge. They usually have a use-by date of a week or two but should be consumed within a few days once the packet has been opened.

Alternatively, you can freeze chorizo slices if you don’t think you’ll them up.

How Long Do Mexican Chorizo Sausages Last?

Mexican sausages will last for one, sometimes even two weeks. Unlike cured Spanish chorizo, Mexican chorizo sausages must be kept in the fridge and will usually come with a use-by which will help you determine how long they are safe to eat for.

Mexican chorizo sausages can be frozen if you don’t think you’ll use them up before they go bad.

How To Tell If Chorizo Has Gone Bad

How can you tell if your chorizo has gone bad? Here are some telltale signs that your chorizo is no longer good to eat. Please note this refers to cured Spanish chorizo.

• Mould – As with most food, mould is never a good sign. If spot any mould on your chorizo sausage then it should be disposed of immediately and not eaten.
• Bad Smell – A strong, foul odour is another sign that chorizo is past its best.