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Meat & Poultry
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Meat & Poultry

How long does raw beef (steaks/roasts) last?

Fresh uncooked beef cuts.

Quick answer
Fridge (40°F / 4°C)
4 days
3–5 days for whole cuts; ground beef only 1–2
Freezer (0°F / -18°C)
1 year
12 months for whole cuts
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Signs raw beef (steaks/roasts) has gone bad

  • Brown color isn't necessarily bad (oxidation)
  • Slimy surface = bad
  • Sour or rotten smell
  • Sticky tackiness

Storage tips

  • Brown color from oxidation = okay; smell test confirms
  • Vacuum packed lasts longer
  • Whole cuts last longer than ground
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Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.