How long can you keep hamburger refrigerated...

Question

before it goes bad?

the pack has NOT been open and I'm just wondering;

does hamburger go bad in the refrigerator?

Answer 1

I can't say I've ever let it go more than 3 days.  

Answer 2

Eventually it goes bad.  Here are some tests:

1.) See if it stinks. If it does and it is slimy, skip it.

2.) Let your dog sniff it. If the dog is still interested, you can probably eat it.

3.) What is the expiration date on it? If you are a week out of expiration, you might give it a pass.

You could probably cook it at high enough heat to kill off any bacteria, but then you have a taste issue. If it truly smells okay, just cook it well; no steak tartare, please.

Answer 3

Yes, very much so. Hamburger deteriorates much faster than steaks or other solid pieces of meat because of the increased surface area and processing. I would use it within 4 days.

Answer 4

Fresh ground store bought hamburger should be used within a day or two at most; the cryovac tubes of ground beef are dated and will last for a week or more.  

Answer 5

If the hamburger is fresh and wrapped tightly then u can refrigerate it for a good 3 days but if it smells or looks funny then dont eat it. I go to a Culinary School so i'm very sure that 3 days is good b4 it goes bad. Hope this helps