Beef should not be eaten after its “use by” date, as this date is set for safety, not just quality[3]. Consuming beef after the “use by” date can increase the risk of foodborne illness, even if it looks and smells fine[5].
The “use by” date on fresh beef indicates the last day the product is considered safe to eat if it has been properly refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. After this date, harmful bacteria may have grown to levels that could make you sick, and the product should be discarded[3]. If you’ve missed the “use by” date, freezing the beef before it expires is the only way to extend its safety and shelf life[3].
If the beef is only past its “sell by” date and not the “use by” date, it may still be safe to eat for 1-3 days if stored properly, but you should check for signs of spoilage such as off-odor, slimy texture, or discoloration[1][7]. Always cook beef to the recommended internal temperature (145°F for steaks/roasts, 160°F for ground beef) to ensure safety[4].
Key points to remember:
- Never eat beef after the “use by” date; throw it out to avoid potential health risks[3].
- If the beef is past its “sell by” but not “use by” date, examine carefully and use within 1-3 days if stored at 40°F (4°C) or below[1][7].
- Always inspect beef for spoilage signs: odor, texture, and color[1].
- When in doubt, it’s safest to throw the beef out[5].
References
- [1] Is beef safe after the “sell by” date? – OSU Extension Service
- [3] Sell by, use by, freeze by, packaged on, expiration date – Michigan State University Extension
- [4] Food Safety – Beef It’s What’s For Dinner
- [5] Understanding Expiration Dates: How Do I Know When My Food’s Gone Bad? – American Heart Association
- [7] How long is meat or poultry safe to use after the sell-by date? – USDA
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