Most meats are displayed refrigerated, and the expiration date often
says "to be consumed or frozen before expiration date"...so IMO, I think
meat should be prepared immediately once it is thawed-out or if
purchased and placed in a refrigerated atmosphere between 35 & 41 d's
farenheit, should be consumed (cooked) & eaten shortly there of before
the expiration date...
By all means, if you do not feel comfortable eating meat that appears
questionable...don't eat it...return it if you feel you purchased bad meat.
I know for fact that some retailers have a cost-saving method of recovering
loses by way of the pet food industry...and/or they will up the price per/lb.
of future sales to recover such loses...you would be amazed the ton's of
meat that reach expiration without being sold...and are pulled from shelves.
Meat retail is something you really have to watch...I personally do not feel
comfortable with retail meat purchases...
Also, I let meat breath during the thawing process...plastic wrap, not good..
I really rely on my snozz' when dealing with meat...And as I reflect, I
suddenly realize how much study and 1st hand knowledge I've gathered on
the subject and probably need to passed it on...Particularly to my youngest
daughter, just starting out on her own...I'm glad you brought this to my
attention, K'Sink..........thanks.............................................................BH51.