Meat is a great source of protein and a staple in many people’s diets. However, it’s important to know how long meat can safely stay in the fridge before it goes bad.

Here’s a guide to help you determine when it’s time to dispose of your leftover meat.

Fresh Meat

If you purchase meat fresh from a butcher or grocery store, you can typically store it in your fridge for 3-5 days before it starts to spoil. This timeline is the same for all types of meat, including beef, pork, poultry, and fish.

Cooked Meat

Cooked meat can usually stay in your fridge for around 3-4 days before it goes bad. However, this timeline can vary depending on the type of meat and how it was cooked.

For example, cooked chicken and turkey may only last 1-2 days due to their higher risk of bacterial growth.

Ground Meat

Ground meat, such as beef or turkey, can typically stay in your fridge for 1-2 days if it’s uncooked. If it’s been cooked, you should aim to consume it within 3-4 days.

Ground meat is more vulnerable to bacterial growth than whole cuts of meat, which is why it should be consumed quickly.

Lunch Meat

Lunch meat typically has a longer shelf life than other types of meat. Unopened packages can last 2-3 weeks in your fridge, while opened packages should be consumed within 3-5 days.

However, keep in mind that lunch meat often contains preservatives, which can make it less healthy than other types of meat.

Cured Meat

Cured meats, such as bacon, ham, and salami, can typically last longer in your fridge than other types of meat. They have preservatives that help to prevent bacterial growth.

Unopened packages can stay in your fridge for up to 2 weeks, while opened packages should be consumed within 1 week.

Leftovers

If you have leftovers from a meal that contained meat, you should aim to consume them within 3-4 days. This is especially true if the leftovers contain ground meat or poultry, which are more susceptible to bacterial growth.

Freezing Meat

If you’re not going to be able to consume your meat within the recommended timeframe, you can always freeze it. Beef, pork, and lamb can typically be frozen for up to 6-12 months, while poultry and fish can be frozen for up to 6 months.

However, keep in mind that freezing meat can affect its quality and taste.

Signs That Meat Has Gone Bad

If you’re ever unsure whether your meat has gone bad, there are a few signs you can look out for. These include:.

Foul, rotten, or sour odor
Discoloration or a slimy texture
Bloating or a swollen appearance
Mold or fungus growth

Conclusion

Knowing how long meat can safely stay in the fridge is key to avoiding foodborne illness. Remember to always store your meat properly and consume it within the recommended timeframe. If in doubt, throw it out.

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health!.