Expiration & Storage Tips
When does oxtail expire?
When it comes to oxtail, if kept unopened and refrigerated, it will last up to 3-5 days beyond the sell-by date on the package. Once it's opened, you're looking at 2-3 days in the fridge. Now if you've cooked your oxtail, it should last for up to 4 days refrigerated. For freezing, raw oxtail can be stored for up to 8-12 months, whereas cooked oxtail will last for 2-3 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if oxtail is bad?
A few things can help you identify if your oxtail has gone bad. Firstly, if it's raw, a strong or off-smell is often a clear sign that the meat is no longer fresh. The color can also be an indicator - if the meat is turning gray or greenish, it's time to toss it out. For cooked oxtail, if it's developing a strange smell, a change in color, or mold, it's best not to consume it. Always remember, when in doubt, it's better to be safe than sorry.
Tips for storing oxtail to extend shelf life
• Always refrigerate your oxtail as soon as you bring it home from the grocery store.
• For long-term storage, you should freeze your oxtail. Ensure to use heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight plastic containers to avoid freezer burn.
• If you’re planning to cook the oxtail within a few days of purchasing, keep it in the refrigerator.
• Try to keep it in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is consistently the coldest.
• Don't forget to label your frozen oxtail with the date to keep track of its storage time and ensure it gets used before it reaches its expiration.