Expiration & Storage Tips
When does beef ribs expire?
When it comes to beef ribs, if you purchase them from a supermarket or butcher, they typically have a sell-by date on the packaging, after which it's advisable to use them within 3-5 days. If you freeze the ribs immediately upon return from the store, they can last up to 12 months in a standard freezer. Once cooked, leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Remember though, freezing doesn't kill bacteria, it just makes them dormant, so always ensure to properly cook ribs before eating.
How do you tell if beef ribs is bad?
It can be a little tricky to tell if beef ribs have spoiled, especially if you aren't usually in the kitchen. A good sign is the smell. Spoiled ribs will have a sour, rancid odor which is usually quite noticeable. The ribs might also have a dull or brownish color as opposed to the vibrant red of fresh meat. If the surface feels slimy or sticky, that's another sure sign the ribs have gone bad. When in doubt, it's best to discard the meat.
Tips for storing beef ribs to extend shelf life
• Always store beef ribs in the refrigerator or freezer within two hours of purchase. The cooler temperature reduces the growth of bacteria.
• If intending to freeze the ribs, wrap them properly with a freezer bag or heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• If storing in the refrigerator, it's a good idea to place the packaged ribs in a shallow dish to catch any potential drip and to avoid cross-contamination.
• Want to extend the life of your cooked ribs leftovers? Instead of freezing the whole batch, divide up into smaller portions so you only need to take out and defrost what you want to eat.
• If defrosting the ribs, always do it in the refrigerator and not at room temperature to reduce bacterial growth.