What To Know
- Ground pork should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
- Ground pork that is vacuum-sealed or packaged in a modified atmosphere will have a longer shelf life than ground pork that is not packaged.
- It is not recommended to eat ground pork that is a day past the use-by date.
Ground pork is a versatile and flavorful meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, it’s important to be aware of the use-by date on the package. This date indicates the last day that the meat is considered safe to eat.
Understanding Use-By Dates
Use-by dates are not the same as expiration dates. Expiration dates indicate the last day that food is safe to eat, while use-by dates indicate the last day that food is at its best quality. After the use-by date, the food may still be safe to eat, but it may not be as flavorful or nutritious.
Factors that Affect Ground Pork Shelf Life
The shelf life of ground pork depends on several factors, including:
- Temperature: Ground pork should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
- Packaging: Ground pork that is vacuum-sealed or packaged in a modified atmosphere will have a longer shelf life than ground pork that is not packaged.
- Freshness: The fresher the ground pork, the longer it will last.
How to Tell if Ground Pork is Bad
There are several ways to tell if ground pork is bad, including:
- Smell: Bad ground pork will have a sour or off smell.
- Color: Bad ground pork will be brown or gray in color.
- Texture: Bad ground pork will be slimy or sticky.
What to Do if You Eat Bad Ground Pork
If you accidentally eat bad ground pork, you may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, you may need to be hospitalized.
How to Safely Store Ground Pork
To safely store ground pork, follow these steps:
- Refrigerate promptly: Ground pork should be refrigerated within two hours of purchase.
- Store in a sealed container: Ground pork should be stored in a sealed container to prevent contamination.
- Thaw in the refrigerator: If ground pork is frozen, it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight.
How to Cook Ground Pork Safely
To cook ground pork safely, follow these steps:
- Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F: Ground pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
- Use a food thermometer: To ensure that ground pork is cooked to the proper temperature, use a food thermometer.
- Do not undercook: Undercooked ground pork can be dangerous to eat.
When to Throw Out Ground Pork
Ground pork should be thrown out if it has any of the following signs of spoilage:
- Sour or off smell
- Brown or gray color
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Mold
Popular Questions
1. Can I eat ground pork that is a day past the use-by date?
It is not recommended to eat ground pork that is a day past the use-by date. However, if the ground pork has been properly stored and does not show any signs of spoilage, it may still be safe to eat.
2. How long can I store ground pork in the refrigerator?
Ground pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
3. How long can I store ground pork in the freezer?
Ground pork can be stored in the freezer for up to four months.
