When shopping, pick up beef just before checking out. If it will take longer than 30 minutes to get it home, consider keeping it cold in a cooler.
Refrigerate or freeze as soon as possible after purchasing.
If you plan to freeze your beef, think ahead to your weekly meals and re-package into right-size portions for you and your family.
You can freeze beef in its original packaging up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap in heavy-duty aluminum foil or place in plastic freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
Place beef packages on the lowest shelf in your refrigerator on a plate or tray to catch any juices.
Label each package with the date, name of beef cut and weight and/or number of servings. Practice the FIFO (first in, first out) inventory system.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours after cooking.
Ground Beef is more perishable than roasts or steaks. Plan to use refrigerated Ground Beef within 1 to 2 days of purchase.