How Long Does Brisket Last? Does It Go Bad?

Brisket is a popular cut of meat that is known for its tender and juicy texture.

It is a staple in many households and is often served at barbecues and other gatherings.

However, like most food items, brisket has a shelf life, and it is essential to know how long it can last and whether it can go bad.

The lifespan of brisket depends on various factors, including whether it is cooked or raw, how it is stored, and the temperature at which it is kept.

In this article, we will explore these factors and answer the question: How long does brisket last?

Does it go bad?

What is Brisket?

Brisket is a cut of beef that comes from the breast or lower chest of the cow. It is a tough and chewy cut of meat that requires slow cooking at low temperatures to become tender and juicy.

Brisket is often served sliced and is a popular choice for barbecued meat. It is also commonly used in stews and other dishes.

How Long Does Brisket Last?

The shelf life of brisket depends on whether it is cooked or raw and how it is stored.

Cooked Brisket

Cooked brisket can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator. After this time, it may start to spoil and should be discarded. It is essential to store cooked brisket in an airtight container to prevent bacteria from growing.

Raw Brisket

Raw brisket can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. After this time, it should either be cooked or frozen. Brisket can be frozen for up to six months, but it is essential to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Vacuum-Packed Brisket

Vacuum-packed brisket can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator, unopened. Once opened, it should be cooked or frozen within three to five days. Vacuum-packed brisket can also be frozen for up to six months.

It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and the lifespan of brisket can vary depending on various factors, such as the temperature of your refrigerator and the freshness of the meat when you bought it.

How to Tell if Brisket Has Gone Bad

It is essential to know how to tell if brisket has gone bad, as consuming spoiled meat can lead to food poisoning. Here are some signs that your brisket may have gone bad:

Change in Color

Fresh brisket is typically bright red, but as it ages, it will start to turn brown or gray. If your brisket has a dull or discolored appearance, it may be spoiling.

Foul Odor

If your brisket has a strong, unpleasant odor, it may have gone bad. Spoiled meat often has a sour or rotten smell.

Change in Texture

Fresh brisket should be firm and smooth. If it becomes slimy, sticky, or has a mushy texture, it may have spoiled.

Mold

If you see mold growing on your brisket, it is a definite sign that it has gone bad. Do not consume moldy meat as it can be dangerous to your health.

If you notice any of these signs, do not consume the brisket, and dispose of it immediately.

How to Store Brisket

Proper storage of brisket is essential to ensure it lasts as long as possible and stays fresh. Here are some tips for storing brisket:

Store in the Refrigerator

Brisket should be stored in the refrigerator if it won’t be consumed within a few hours. Be sure to check the temperature of your fridge, as meat should be stored at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth.

Use Airtight Containers

When storing cooked or raw brisket in the refrigerator, it is important to use airtight containers. This prevents the meat from coming into contact with air and bacteria.

Freeze Uncooked Brisket

If you won’t be using your brisket within five days, it’s best to freeze it. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Label and Date

When storing brisket in the refrigerator or freezer, it is essential to label and date it. This makes it easy to keep track of how long it has been stored and when it needs to be used.

Store Away from Other Foods

When storing brisket in the refrigerator or freezer, it should be stored away from other foods to prevent contamination.

Conclusion

In summary, cooked brisket can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator, while raw brisket can be stored for up to five days. Vacuum-packed brisket can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator, unopened. Once opened, it should be cooked or frozen within three to five days. Brisket can be frozen for up to six months.

It is important to look for signs that your brisket has gone bad, such as a change in color or texture, a foul odor, or the presence of mold. If you notice any of these signs, do not consume the meat.

Finally, proper storage of brisket is essential to ensure it stays fresh and lasts as long as possible. Use airtight containers, label and date your meat, and store it away from other foods to prevent contamination.