Expiration & Storage Tips
When does short rib expire?
Unopened and properly refrigerated, fresh short ribs should last up to 3-5 days past the printed sell-by date. Once opened, they should be consumed within 2-3 days for optimal taste. As for freezing, uncooked short ribs can be kept in the freezer for 6-12 months. Defrosting should always be done in the fridge, not at room temperature, and can take 24-48 hours.
How do you tell if short rib is bad?
To check if your short ribs have gone bad, you should look out for a couple of things. If the ribs have an off smell, particularly a sour or rotten odor, they're likely spoiled. Another sign is if your ribs have changed color. Fresh beef should be bright red, and brown or gray patches could be an indication that the meat is old. It's always best to err on the side of caution when dealing with potentially spoiled meat.
Tips for storing short rib to extend shelf life
• Always refrigerate your short ribs as soon as possible after purchasing, ideally in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
• If you plan to consume your ribs in a few days time, store them in their original packaging. If it's for longer, consider repacking into airtight bags or containers.
• Take care not to contaminate the ribs with any raw poultry or seafood in your fridge.
• When freezing, use heavy duty freezer bags and squeeze out as much air as possible to minimize freezer burn.
• Defrost in the fridge, not at room temperature. This helps maintain the texture and safety of the meat.