Taco Meat

Taco meat, when unopened in a can, can last up to 2-5 years past the printed date on the packet if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened and refrigerated, it should be used within 3 to 4 days. If you've cooked up a batch of your own taco meat, it will also generally last about 3-4 days in the fridge. If you choose to freeze your cooked taco meat, it can generally last between 2 to 6 months.

To tell whether taco meat has gone bad, you have to check a few things. The color of the meat can be a good indicator – it may become grey or develop a slimy layer, and this is a clear signal that it isn’t safe to eat. Try smelling it too, if it has an off-putting or sour scent, it’s best to avoid eating it. Lastly, if you notice any mold or growth on the meat, that's a clear sign it's spoiled.

• Keep taco meat in an airtight container when storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. • Never leave taco meat at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Always refrigerate immediately after cooking or serving. • If you're looking to extend the shelf life of your taco meat, consider freezing it in individual serving-sized portions. This way, you only defrost what you need and the rest remains frozen, maintaining its freshness. • Always defrost frozen taco meat in the refrigerator, not out on the counter. This ensures it stays at a safe temperature. • To keep your taco meat moist after cooking, consider adding a little bit of broth or salsa before storing. Just enough to cover the meat lightly. This will help prevent it from drying out while stored.