How Long Can You Leave Ground Beef in the Fridge?

Ground beef is a versatile and affordable meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. But how long can you safely keep it in the fridge before it goes bad?

Factors that Affect the Shelf Life of Ground Beef

Temperature: Ground beef should be stored at a temperature of 40°F or below. Higher temperatures will allow bacteria to grow more quickly.
Packaging: Ground beef that is vacuum-sealed or wrapped in plastic wrap will last longer than ground beef that is not packaged.
Additives: Some ground beef contains additives that can help to extend its shelf life. These additives can include preservatives, antioxidants, and lactic acid.

How Long Can Ground Beef Be Kept in the Fridge?

The shelf life of ground beef in the fridge depends on the factors listed above. In general, ground beef can be stored in the fridge for:

Up to 3 days: Ground beef that is vacuum-sealed or wrapped in plastic wrap and stored at a temperature of 40°F or below.
Up to 1 day: Ground beef that is not vacuum-sealed or wrapped in plastic wrap and stored at a temperature of 40°F or below.

How to Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad

There are a few telltale signs that ground beef has gone bad:

Smell: Ground beef that has gone bad will have a sour or off smell.
Color: Ground beef that has gone bad will be brown or gray in color.
Texture: Ground beef that has gone bad will be slimy or sticky to the touch.

Tips for Storing Ground Beef

Store ground beef in the coldest part of the fridge. This is typically the bottom shelf.
Do not store ground beef in the door of the fridge. The temperature in the door can fluctuate, which can shorten the shelf life of the ground beef.
Use ground beef within 3 days of purchasing it. If you do not plan to use the ground beef within 3 days, freeze it.
Ground beef can be frozen for up to 4 months. When freezing ground beef, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper.

Conclusion

Ground beef is a perishable food that can go bad quickly if not stored properly. By following the tips in this article, you can safely store ground beef in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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