Here’s How to Identify If Your Ground Beef Is No Longer Fresh

If you've found yourself wondering whether that package of ground beef in your fridge has stayed too long, you're not alone. Meat, whether it’s chicken, beef, or pork, should never be consumed once it’s gone bad, as even cooked meat can lead to food poisoning. On the other hand, you don’t want to mistakenly discard meat that’s still safe to eat, wasting both money and ruining your meal plans. So how can you tell if your ground beef has spoiled or is still good to go? What’s the deal with that gray color? Read on to clear up all your ground beef concerns.

How to Spot Spoiled Raw Ground Beef

First things first: If the beef appears gray, don’t toss it just yet. Ground beef gets its bright red color when exposed to air, so the outer layers may appear red while the interior remains gray. This simply means it’s fresh and safe to eat. However, if the beef is uniformly gray all over, it’s time to check for additional signs of spoilage.

The simplest way to determine if your ground beef has gone bad is by checking its smell and texture. If it emits a foul odor and feels soft or slimy to the touch, it’s no longer safe to consume.

How to Tell If Your Cooked Ground Beef Is No Longer Safe to Eat

Identifying spoiled cooked ground beef can be tricky since bad meat may have the same color as fresh meat. The most reliable indicator is the smell—if it has a sour or off-putting odor, it’s time to toss it. However, it’s always best to discard any questionable ground beef before cooking it to avoid potential health risks.

Can You Safely Eat Ground Beef After the Sell-By Date?

The sell-by date is more of a guideline for retailers than an actual indicator of freshness for consumers. While the date is useful for stores to manage stock, it doesn’t necessarily mean the beef is spoiled. Ground beef can often stay fresh a few days past its sell-by date. Ideally, cook it within a couple of days, but if you’re unsure, use your senses—check the smell and feel of the meat to determine if it’s gone bad. When buying, opt for the package with the most recent sell-by date to ensure maximum freshness.

How Long Can Ground Beef Be Stored in the Fridge?

So, how long can ground beef stay fresh in your fridge? According to the USDA, raw ground beef typically lasts only one to two days. However, you can still rely on your senses to judge if it’s safe to eat. Keep it tightly sealed and store it in the coldest section of your fridge, usually the bottom drawer. Cooked ground beef, on the other hand, can last for three to four days.

How Long Does Ground Beef Remain Good in the Freezer?

The good news is that ground beef, when sealed properly, can last for three to four months in the freezer. For extra protection against freezer burn, wrap it in heavy-duty foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a resealable freezer bag. Don’t forget to label and date the package! To thaw, simply refrigerate overnight or place the package in cold water for about ten minutes. Once thawed, cook it immediately and avoid refreezing.

How to Cook with Ground Beef

When it’s time to cook your ground beef, the options are endless! Explore some of our top recipes for any night of the week, including favorites like burgers and meatballs.