Steak Bites

If your steak bites are raw and refrigerated, they are safe to use for 1 to 2 days after purchase even if the 'sell-by' date has passed. After being cooked, steak bites can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If they're frozen, steak bites can last up to 6 months, but for the best flavor, it's recommended to use them within 1-2 months.

Identifying bad steak bites is quite easy. Usually, the first sign is a strong, off-putting smell. If the steak bites have an unpleasant odor, it's time to throw them away. Next, touch them. If steak bites feel sticky or slimy, they've most likely gone bad. Visual cues could be a change in color. Fresh steak is bright red. If there's a lot of gray, brown, or greenish color on it, the steak is no longer good to eat. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out!

• Optimal storage of steak bites depends on whether they are raw or cooked. • Raw steak should always be kept in the refrigerator, preferably at 40°F or below. Use airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. • Don't leave raw steak bites at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. • Cooked steak bites should be cooled and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. They can be stored in shallow containers for quicker cooling. • Freezing is also an option and can significantly extend the shelf life. The best method of freezing steak bites is to wrap them tightly in airtight freezer-safe wraps or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. • To defrost frozen steak bites, put them in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Avoid defrosting steak bites on the bench as this can lead to bacterial growth. If you need them quickly, you can use the defrost function on your microwave but make sure to cook them immediately afterwards.