Introduction

Chicken is a popular and versatile protein that can be cooked in many different ways. However, it’s important to know how to handle and store chicken properly to avoid foodborne illness. One common question people have is how long after the sell by date can you eat chicken. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and provide tips for safe chicken consumption.

What is a Sell By Date?

A sell by date is a label that indicates the last day a food product should be sold by the retailer. It’s not a safety date, but rather a quality date. This means that the food may still be safe to eat after the sell by date, but the quality may have declined. The sell by date is typically found on perishable items like meat, poultry, and dairy products.

What is an Expiration Date?

An expiration date is a label that indicates the last day a food product should be consumed. This date is based on scientific testing and is a safety date. Eating food past the expiration date can increase the risk of foodborne illness. However, not all foods have an expiration date. In fact, the only food that is required by law to have an expiration date is baby formula.

How Long Can You Eat Chicken After the Sell By Date?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including how the chicken has been stored and whether it has been cooked. If the chicken has been stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F, it can be safe to eat for up to 4 days after the sell by date. However, if the chicken has been frozen, it can be safe to eat for up to 4 months after the sell by date.

If the chicken has been cooked, it can be safe to eat for up to 4 days after the sell by date if it has been stored properly in the refrigerator. If the chicken has been frozen after cooking, it can be safe to eat for up to 4 months after the sell by date.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and that the quality of the chicken may have declined after the sell by date. Always use your best judgment and follow your senses when determining whether or not to eat chicken that is past its sell by date.

Tips for Safe Chicken Consumption

• Always check the sell by date before purchasing chicken and choose the freshest option available.
• Store chicken in the refrigerator at or below 40°F and use it within 4 days of the sell by date.
• If you’re not going to use the chicken within 4 days, freeze it for later use.
• Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other foods to avoid cross-contamination.
• Wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken with soap and hot water.

Conclusion

Chicken is a delicious and nutritious protein that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, it’s important to handle and store chicken properly to avoid foodborne illness. While the sell by date can be a helpful guide, it’s not a safety date. Use your best judgment and follow your senses when determining whether or not to eat chicken that is past its sell by date. By following these tips for safe chicken consumption, you can enjoy this tasty protein with confidence.