Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Swiss Steak expire?
When you buy Swiss Steak from the grocery store, it's generally good in your fridge for up to 3-5 days if it's fresh and unopened. The 'Sell By' date on the package can be a good indicator, but you should also consider the freshness of meat at the time of purchase. Once the Swiss Steak is opened, you should consume it within 2-3 days. If you want to extend its life further, you can freeze Swiss Steak for up to 6-12 months.
How do you tell if Swiss Steak is bad?
To know if your Swiss Steak has turned bad, first look for any noticeable visual changes in the meat, like a change in color to a gray hue. The surface of the meat becoming tacky or slimy is another bad sign. Apart from the visual cues, smell can be a strong indicator. If you get a sour, ammonia-like smell, then you can be sure the Swiss Steak has gone bad. If you're still in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Tips for storing Swiss Steak to extend shelf life
• Always store Swiss Steak at a consistent and correct temperature in your fridge (below 40 °F), raw meat is a breeding ground for bacteria at room temperature.
• Transfer the steak to a freezer-safe container or bag if you want to freeze the meat. Remove as much air from the packaging as possible to avoid freezer burn.
• You might like to defrost your Swiss Steak in the fridge, not on the counter, to ensure it remains at a safe temperature as it thaws.
• If you buy in bulk, consider separating the Swiss Steak into meal-sized portions before freezing. This allows you to only thaw what you need and avoid refreezing meat.