So, I know this question has been posted around here from time to time, but couldn't get directed to it quickly in searching for it. I have a vac pack flat that has a use by date of 4/6 and today is 4/18. Some how, it got buried in the back of the fridge behind the kids snacks. I have used beef before outwards of a week after the use by date and I know that the date is not always a definitive date. My question is other than smell and feel of the flat, is there anything else I need to consider? I know vac packs can generate some off odors that tend to dissipate once the meat has been removed. I would like to use it this Saturday, which is 17 days past the date. Would it be better to freeze now then thaw before hand, or let it ride it out in the fridge until Friday evening for a dry brine then smoke the following day??
Thanks
Last edited by Rocinante; April 18, 2022, 06:39 PM.
A good place to start the clock is the pack date. As long as your within 3 weeks of the pack date, you should be good to go.
Your nose is going to be the best indicator for when you've gone past the point of useable. once you cut open the package, give it five minuets to lose the cryo stink, and then give it a good smell. if you have any doubts, no matter what the dates on the package say, then toss it.
I wet age cryovaced briskets for 60 days all the time. In fact there are 4 in my shop fridge that will be ready by the weekend. I see no reason not to cook what you have.
If not cooking outdoors, I am cooking on the stovetop with my 14" carbon steel wok, 12" CI skillet, or in the oven with my two Lodge CI pizza pans, or two dutch ovens. I've also got a nifty Lodge carbon steel grill pan that rocks for veggies outdoors.
I would take it out of the package, rinse it, dry it off, and see how it smells. I am certain it will be fine, as I've wet aged Costco briskets for a month past their sell/use by date.
Thanks for all of the input. I'm keeping it in the fridge until I give it a good rubbing on Friday for a smoke on Saturday. I'll provide an update then. Pretty sure it should be alright, but wanted to be sure.
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