The Truth About Sell By Dates and Chicken
When it comes to chicken, food safety is paramount. However, many people are unsure about what to do with chicken that has passed its sell-by date. The sell-by date, also known as the “pull date,” is the last date by which the store should sell the chicken. But does it necessarily mean the chicken is spoiled or unsafe to eat? The answer is no, and in this article, we will explore five ways to use chicken past its sell-by date.
Understanding Sell By Dates
Sell-by dates are used by stores to ensure that products are sold before they reach their expiration date. These dates are not the same as the “use by” date, which is the last date recommended for use of the product while it is still at its peak quality. The “use by” date is usually found on perishable products like meat, dairy, and eggs. However, even if chicken has passed its sell-by date, it can still be safe to eat if stored properly.
5 Ways to Use Chicken Past Sell By Date
Here are five ways to use chicken that has passed its sell-by date:
1. Freeze It
One of the best ways to extend the life of chicken is to freeze it. As long as the chicken is stored at 0°F (-18°C) or below, it will remain safe to eat for several months. When freezing chicken, it’s essential to follow proper freezing and thawing procedures to prevent bacterial growth. Make sure to wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
2. Cook and Refrigerate
If you won’t be able to freeze the chicken, you can cook it and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Cooked chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool the chicken to room temperature within two hours of cooking, then refrigerate it at 40°F (4°C) or below.
3. Make Chicken Stock
Another great way to use chicken past its sell-by date is to make chicken stock. Chicken stock is a great base for soups, stews, and sauces, and it’s easy to make. Simply place the chicken in a large pot, cover it with water, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to an hour, then strain the stock and discard the solids.
4. Use in Soups and Stews
Chicken is a staple ingredient in many soups and stews, and using chicken past its sell-by date is a great way to add protein and flavor to your favorite recipes. Simply dice the chicken and add it to your favorite soup or stew recipe.
5. Make Chicken Salad
Finally, you can use chicken past its sell-by date to make chicken salad. Simply chop the cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite ingredients, such as mayonnaise, chopped onions, and diced celery.
📝 Note: When using chicken past its sell-by date, make sure to check its texture, smell, and appearance before consuming it. If the chicken has an off smell, slimy texture, or visible mold, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Storing Chicken Safely
Regardless of whether you plan to use chicken past its sell-by date, it’s essential to store it safely to prevent bacterial growth. Here are some tips for storing chicken:
- Always store chicken in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Keep raw chicken away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use shallow containers to store chicken, and cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze chicken at 0°F (-18°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using chicken past its sell-by date is not only safe but also practical. By freezing, cooking, making chicken stock, using in soups and stews, or making chicken salad, you can extend the life of chicken and reduce food waste.
Is it safe to eat chicken past its sell-by date?
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Yes, it is safe to eat chicken past its sell-by date as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.
How long can I store chicken in the refrigerator?
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Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, while raw chicken should be used within 1 to 2 days.
Can I freeze chicken past its sell-by date?
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Yes, you can freeze chicken past its sell-by date. As long as the chicken is stored at 0°F (-18°C) or below, it will remain safe to eat for several months.
