2. Don’t panic about auto-dates
“Best before,” “best by,” and “use by” dates can be confusing.
The date printed on the package does not automatically mean that the meat will no longer be safe at midnight on that date. USDA guidelines explain that product dating is generally more related to quality than safety, although specific refrigeration instructions should be followed if necessary. Proper refrigeration is essential.
This doesn’t mean you should ignore the data.
Fresh meat and poultry are perishable, so it depends on storage time, refrigerator temperature,
