Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lamb chop expire?
For vacuum-sealed lamb chops stored in the refrigerator, they'll last for about 1 to 2 days after the sell-by date. Once opened, they should be cooked within 3 to 5 days. If you decide to freeze them and keep them at 0 degrees Fahrenheit, they'll be safe indefinitely but for the best quality, consume them within 6 to 9 months.
How do you tell if lamb chop is bad?
The most direct way to know if lamb chops are bad is to give them a good sniff. If they have an unpleasant or strong odor, it's a definitive sign they've gone bad. Aside from that, if the meat has an unusual or dull gray-brown color, or if it feels slimy, avoid consuming it.
Tips for storing lamb chop to extend shelf life
• Always store lamb chops in a refrigerator set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Make sure they're well-wrapped or sealed to avoid cross-contamination with other foods.
• If you plan to use the chops within a day or two, it's okay to keep them in the store packaging. For longer storage, consider re-wrapping them in aluminum foil or freezer paper.
• To freeze lamb chops, wrap them tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze them as soon as possible after purchasing to maintain quality.
• When defrosting lamb chops, it's best to do it in the refrigerator. If time is an issue, you can also use the defrost function on your microwave, but make sure to cook them immediately after to avoid bacteria growth.