Beef Burger

When purchased and stored in the refrigerator, a beef burger (uncooked) will usually stay fresh for 1-2 days. If you've cooked them and have leftovers in the fridge, they'll last about 3 to 4 days. If you bought the beef burger preservative-packed (for example, vacuum-sealed or in a can), it can stay unopened in your pantry for 2-5 years! Now if you want to extend that even further, freezing is a great option. Uncooked beef burgers can remain good for 3 to 4 months in the freezer, while cooked ones can last 2 to 6 months.

There are a few key signs to look for. If your beef burger has developed a strong odd or off smell, be wary. Fresh beef has a slightly gamey smell, but if it starts to smell sour, sweet, or just plainly unpleasant, it's time to say goodbye. Another sign is color. If your raw beef burger is turning grey or brown, it could be expired. Likewise, if the cooked beef burger has an unappetizing color or dried out texture, it might have passed its prime. Also, sliminess or stickiness is a clear sign your beef burger is bad.

• Store your uncooked beef burgers at the back of the fridge where it's coldest. This helps maintain the freshness. • If you plan on freezing them, wrap each patty individually in plastic cling wrap before putting them in a resealable ziplock freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. • Cooked leftovers should be put in an airtight container in the fridge as soon as they cool. The longer they stay out in room temperature, the faster they can go bad. • When it's time to defrost, don't do it at room temperature. Instead, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.