How long can I keep pork in cooler?

[mattu1665]

I pulled 2 butts off the smoker at 6:30 am, wrapped them in foil and a towel and then placed them in a cooler. We're not eating them until 3:00 pm this afternoon.

My question is, how long can I leave the butts in the cooler before I should pull them out and shred? Could I wait all the way up until it's time to eat?

 

[gmc2003]

Your probably going to be safe, but that's 8 1/2 hrs. I myself would come up with a plan B. Maybe shred now and reheat for the chow-down.

Chris

 

[mattu1665]

Your probably going to be safe, but that's 8 1/2 hrs. I myself would come up with a plan B. Maybe shred now and reheat for the chow-down.

Chris

Thanks, I was concerned the meat would dry out if I went that route. I've held butts in a cooler for 4 hours before but never 8 hours.

 

[DougE]

I've only held them in a cooler for 3 or 4 hours and they were still hot enough to burn you, but 8 1/2 hours is a long time. Maybe hold it in the oven on low.

 

[mattu1665]

I've only held them in a cooler for 3 or 4 hours and they were still hot enough to burn you, but 8 1/2 hours is a long time. Maybe hold it in the oven on low.

Thanks, Doug! Should I shred the pork first or wait until ready to eat?

 

[noboundaries]

Move it to a pan, leave it wrapped, and put it in your oven on the lowest setting, usually 140°F to 170°F. Wait to shred.

 

[thirdeye]

I'd cycle the butt into an oven when the internal falls back down to 150°. This butt was hot held in a roaster oven on 155° for 6 or 7 hours. Make sure you have warmed juices in the foil or pan.

 

[DougE]

Thanks, Doug! Should I shred the pork first or wait until ready to eat?

Leave it whole until near chow time.

 

[indaswamp]

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