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Food Safety Issues/Hamburger Meat
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Question
I bought hamburger (ground beef 73/27 lean) about two weeks ago. I put it in the freezer as soon as I got home from the grocery store. I took it out of the freezer two days ago, to thaw. How long is it safe to sit in the fridge (after thawing) before cooking it?
Hi Dana,
The general rule of thumb is 3-4 days. Just as you would have 3-4 days in the refrigerator if you never froze the meat, you have the same length of time once the meat is thawed.
Carol C. Schlitt
Extension Educator, Nutrition and Wellness
University of Illiois Extension
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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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