How Long Does Raw Steak Last in the Refrigerator?
Updated: 3 hours ago
How long does raw steak last in your refrigerator? Anywhere from 2 days to two weeks, and it all depends on the packaging. We put two steaks through a five-day test to see why.
Fresh steak is a delicious steak, and a few simple habits keep it that way. Here is what our Pre Brands shelf life test showed, how packaging changes the timeline, and how to store raw steak and spot the signs it has gone bad.
How long does raw steak last? It depends on the packaging
Raw steak lasts anywhere from 2 days to two weeks in your refrigerator. The difference comes down to how it is wrapped.
Butcher counter steak: wrapped in plastic and butcher paper, then sealed with a rubber band or tape. Plan to cook it within 3 to 5 days, which is the USDA guidance for fresh steaks, and sooner is better.
Vacuum-sealed steak: with the oxygen removed, it stays fresh longer. Follow the use-by date on the package.
We did a five-day shelf life test in the refrigerator
The two test subjects were:
Steak bought from the butcher counter, wrapped in plastic and then sealed with butcher paper and a rubber band
A Pre® vacuum-sealed steak
Each went into the refrigerator for 5 days. Watch to see what we discovered and why we choose to keep our beef airtight and vacuum-sealed.
Why packaging changes how long raw steak lasts
From the butcher counter, steaks are wrapped in plastic wrap and butcher paper, then sealed with a rubber band or tape. Often, those steaks have been sitting in the meat case exposed to oxygen throughout the day.
Oxygen is what turns beef bright red. That is why the beef at the meat counter is usually bright red instead of a deep red or purple: it is in constant contact with oxygen.
Next to the butcher counter is the pre-packaged meat section, where you will find vacuum-sealed steak. When a steak is vacuum-sealed, the oxygen is removed, so it looks deep red or purple. That color is normal. The seal keeps oxygen out of the package, which equals a longer shelf life.
Curious about the color? Our Quality Manager explains why beef changes color.
Why Pre vacuum-seals its beef
Our beef at Pre® is vacuum-sealed to preserve freshness. The cardboard backing on our packaging is 100% recyclable, and the film we use is free of synthetic chemicals. We never use nitrate film to enhance meat color or gasses to extend shelf life. Vacuum sealing works just fine.
The transparent window on the front of the pack lets you see exactly what you are buying. Pre beef is 100% Grass-Fed & Finished, with no added hormones and no sub-therapeutic antibiotics, and the packaging is built to let the beef speak for itself. Questions about fresh and frozen? Our FAQ has answers.
How to store raw steak in the refrigerator
Keep the refrigerator cold. Set it to 40°F or below, and use an appliance thermometer to take the guesswork out.
Use the bottom shelf. Juices from raw steak never drip onto other foods that way.
Leave vacuum-sealed steak sealed. Opening the package lets oxygen back in, so wait until you are ready to cook.
Give butcher counter steak a tray. Keep it in its wrapping and set it on a plate to catch any juices.
Watch the date. Cook or freeze the steak before the use-by date passes.
Meal prepping for the week? Cook or freeze your steak by the use-by date, then build healthy dinners around it with our High Protein meal prep guide.
How to tell if raw steak has gone bad
Trust your senses, and when in doubt, throw it out.
Smell: fresh raw steak smells mild. A sour or off smell means it is time to toss it.
Texture: a slimy or sticky film is a warning sign.
Color: purple in a vacuum-sealed steak is normal. Gray or brown patches can come from oxygen exposure alone, but together with an off smell or slimy texture, they mean toss it.
Can you freeze raw steak instead?
Yes. If you will not cook your steak before the use-by date, freeze it. For best quality, the USDA suggests using steaks within about 6 to 12 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator, then cook within 3 to 5 days.
Our favorite ways to cook a fresh steak
Fresh steak deserves a great cook. Pick the method that fits your night:
FAQ
How long can raw steak stay in the refrigerator?
USDA guidance is 3 to 5 days for fresh steaks stored at 40°F or below. Vacuum-sealed steak can last longer, so follow the use-by date on the package.
Why is vacuum-sealed steak purple?
Vacuum sealing removes the oxygen, and beef without oxygen is deep red or purple. It blooms back to a brighter red once you open the package and the meat meets the air.
Is it safe to eat steak that looks gray or brown?
Color alone does not tell you. Check the smell, the texture, and the use-by date. If the steak smells sour or feels slimy, toss it.
Should I wash raw steak before cooking it?
No. Rinsing spreads bacteria around your sink. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel instead, which also gives you a better sear.
Need more time? See how long steak can stay in the freezer for freezing and defrosting tips.
Where can I buy Pre 100% Grass-Fed & Finished Beef?
Check out our store finder to find a store near you, browse all Pre products, or find us on Instacart.
