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Food Safety Issues/Ground beef
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Question
How long can ground beef be frozen?
Hi Kim,
If it remains frozen (no thawing due to power outages, etc) technically it can remain safe to eat indefinitely.
Now...we all know that food in the freezer does not get better with age. What you are really asking is, how long can ground beef be frozen with good quality. The answer to that question is 3 to 4 months. After 6 months, color and flavor changes start to become apparent rendering an old-tasting product.
The freezer guidelines for meat are based on quality -- not safety. As I said, old frozen ground beef is safe to eat -- just not very appetizing!
Carol
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Answers by Expert:
Carol Schlitt
Expertise
I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).
Experience
I am a former Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety, having retired August 1, 2010. I am a certified HACCP manager, a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health and a 3rd party food safety and OSHA auditor of restaurants.
Organizations
International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, St. Louis Culinary Society.
Education/Credentials
BS - University of Illinois
MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
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