Expiration & Storage Tips
When does beef stew meat expire?
When kept in the refrigerator, fresh beef stew meat should ideally be used within 2-3 days of purchase to ensure maximum freshness and best quality. If it's been vacuum-packed and the package is unopened, it could last up to 2 weeks. If you've taken advantage of a sale and have frozen the meat, you're in luck - it can last between 6-12 months in the freezer. However, remember to use it within 3-4 days once it's been thawed in the fridge.
How do you tell if beef stew meat is bad?
Spoiled meat tends to give clear signals that it's time to toss it. First, take a whiff - if it smells sour, off-putting or has a faintly sweet, sickly scent, it might be bad. Next, look at the color. If your beef stew meat has turned gray or brown, this could indicate spoilage. Fresh beef is a bright red. Finally, if the surface feels slimy or sticky, or if you can see mold growing, it's best to discard it immediately to avoid food poisoning.
Tips for storing beef stew meat to extend shelf life
• Always store beef stew meat in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at a temperature of below 40°F.
• If you won't be using the meat within a few days of purchase, consider freezing it. You can divide it into meal-sized portions and store each portion in a separate freezer bag to avoid waste.
• If you have frozen the beef stew meat, thaw it safely by transferring it to the fridge, never leave it on the counter to defrost as this can invite bacteria growth.
• Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed packages to store your meat. This reduces exposure to air, thereby slowing down the growth of bacteria and extending the shelf life of the meat.