How long does turkey last once opened?
Turkey (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat, opened) keeps 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Fridge
After opening
3-5days
Freezer
Can be frozen: yes
-
Pantry
No known time
-
Mine has been in the fridge for
Refreeze after thawing in the fridge?
- United States
- Yes
- United Kingdom
- Only after cooking
How long does turkey last in the refrigerator?
- Pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat, opened3-5 daysAfter opening
Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or below.
Your fridge should be set between 0 and 5°C.
Other forms
| Form | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole | 1-2 days | 12 months | - |
| Ground turkey | 1-2 days | 3-4 months | - |
| Pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat | 2 weeks | 1-2 months | - |
| Cooked | 2 days | 4 months | - |
What the official sources say
“Lunch meat unopened 2 weeks; opened 3 to 5 days 1 to 2 months”
“Luncheon meat opened 3 to 5 days”
“Hotdogs, luncheon meats (opened) 3-7 days”
Sources
We always show the most cautious time among official sources. Last verified: October 1, 2026.
- FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart US
- Food Standards Agency - consumer food hygiene guidance GB
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension US
- Dover District Council GB
- University of Illinois Extension US
- University of Minnesota Extension US
- University of Georgia Extension US
- Clemson University Extension US
- University of Kentucky Extension US
- North Dakota State University Extension US
- Ohio State University Extension US
- Virginia Cooperative Extension (Virginia Tech) US
- University of Delaware Cooperative Extension US
- Oregon State University Extension US
- WRAP GB
- USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data US
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling and Preparation US