Can You Eat Ground Turkey After the Use By Date?

Ground turkey is a healthy, versatile meat that can be used in everything from burgers to chili But with a relatively short shelf life, many home cooks wonder if ground turkey is still safe to eat after passing the use by date printed on the package

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. With proper storage and handling, ground turkey may retain quality and safety for a short time beyond this date However, it’s important to be very cautious and closely examine the turkey before consumption.

Factors That Determine Freshness

Several key factors impact whether ground turkey is still fresh and safe after the use by date:

• Storage Temperature – Ground turkey must be continuously stored at 40°F or below. Higher fridge temps allow spoilage bacteria to multiply faster.

• Package Seal – An air-tight sealed package prevents oxygen exposure and bacteria growth. Any openings or leaks will shorten shelf life.

• Freezer Storage – Frozen ground turkey maintains quality and safety significantly longer. Turkey can be frozen prior to the use by date.

• Fat Content – Lower fat turkey has a slightly shorter shelf life than higher fat options. Lean turkey is more prone to spoiling.

• Preservatives – Some ground turkey contains preservatives like sodium erythorbate which can extend shelf life slightly. Check the label.

Timeline After Use By Date

How long can you keep using ground turkey after the printed use by date? Here are conservative timeframes, assuming continuous refrigerator storage at 40°F or below:

• 1 to 2 days – Ground turkey is likely still safe and retaining freshness. Cook thoroughly.

• 3 to 5 days – Caution is warranted. Inspect carefully for any odor, color change, or slime. Discard if there are any concerns.

• 1 week – The turkey is entering dangerous territory. The risk of foodborne illness rises exponentially at this point. It is best to discard.

Sensory Inspection Is Critical

Because ground turkey can look and smell normal for a few days after the use by date, it is essential to thoroughly check it with your senses before cooking or eating. Look for:

• Off or sour odors – Any rancid, ammonia-like or uncharacteristic smell means toss it.

• Sliminess – If the meat feels excessively sticky, wet or tacky, it has likely started decomposing. Discard.

• Color Changes – Grey, green or brown hues indicate spoilage. Do not eat discolored turkey.

Trust your nose and eyes. When in doubt, throw it out. Safety comes first.

Proper Storage Is Key

To maximize ground turkey’s shelf life and safety beyond the use by date, proper storage is critical:

• Store in original packaging or airtight containers. Limit oxygen exposure.

• Place turkey on a plate on the bottom shelf of the fridge. Avoid the door where temperature fluctuations happen.

• Freeze extra ground turkey if you won’t use within 1-2 days. Thaw in the fridge, not at room temp.

• Do not refreeze thawed ground turkey. This greatly increases food safety risks.

Alternate Uses If Expired

If ground turkey displays any signs of spoilage or ages beyond 5 days, refrain from eating it. However, there are some alternate safe uses for expired ground turkey:

• Add to a compost pile or bin. Provides nutrients to soil.

• Use as bait for fishing or traps. Helps attract worms and insects.

• Dispose of in municipal green waste bins. Some communities accept meat scraps.

The Bottom Line

Ground turkey is often still safe up to 2 days past the printed use by date, if properly stored. But it requires very careful inspection of appearance, texture and smell. If in doubt, remember – when it comes to meat, it’s better to be safe than sick. Follow your senses and throw away turkey with any odd odors, colors or textures.

What experiences have you had with ground turkey after the use by date? Share your tips and tricks in the comments!