Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chicken meatball expire?
When unopened and refrigerated, store-bought chicken meatballs should be consumed by the 'use by' date on the package. However, once opened, it's best to consume them within 3-4 days. If you've made chicken meatballs at home, they should also be eaten within 3-4 days when refrigerated. Chicken meatballs can also be frozen for about 2-3 months, but remember, they might lose a bit of their quality after being frozen. When defrosting, it's safest to do this in the refrigerator overnight.
How do you tell if chicken meatball is bad?
Identifying spoiled chicken meatballs isn't too hard. An off smell is a clear sign your chicken meatballs have gone bad. If they have started developing a slick or slimy layer, that’s another clear indication. Additionally, if the meatballs have changed to a dull, dark color, it's best not to eat them.
Tips for storing chicken meatball to extend shelf life
• Always store chicken meatballs in a refrigerator set to 40°F or colder to keep them fresh.
• If freezing, pack them in a tight, shallow, air-tight container or bag and remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
• While defrosting, keep the meatballs in the fridge to ensure safe defrosting and avoid bacterial growth.
• Homemade chicken meatballs can be kept longer by freezing them on a baking sheet before storing. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Separating large quantities into smaller, manageable portions for freezing can make it easier and quicker to defrost only what you need, reducing waste.