Chicken And Vegetables

If purchased pre-packaged and unopened, this type of food usually can last in the refrigerator for about 1-2 days past the 'sell by' date on the package. After opening the package, it's best to consume within 2 or 3 days. In the freezer, it can last around one to two months before it starts to lose quality, though it'll technically still be safe to eat after that time.

First, give it a good smell. Bad chicken has a very distinctive, rotten smell, while bad vegetables may smell more like a stinky refrigerator. If it smells off, that's a sure sign to throw it out. You should also look at the color and texture. If the chicken is gray or slimy in texture, it's time to toss it. For vegetables, you'll need to look for signs of molding or great amount of sliminess.

• Make sure to store your chicken and vegetables separately and properly sealed in the fridge to avoid cross-contamination. • Use the coldest part of your fridge, which is usually the bottom shelf, for chicken storage. • For the vegetables, the humidity drawer or crispers in the fridge are the best to keep them fresh. • Try to use the oldest items first to make sure you're rotating your stock and not letting anything go bad. • Freezing can be a good option if you're not planning to eat it soon. It's best to cut the vegetables and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Remember to thaw calmly using the fridge or cold water method, never at room temperature.