mean the meat becomes unsafe at midnight on that date. USDA guidance explains that product dating generally concerns quality rather than safety, although specific “use-by” instructions should be followed when applicable. Proper refrigeration is essential.
That doesn’t mean you should ignore dates.
Fresh meat and poultry are highly perishable, so storage time, refrigerator temperature, packaging, and whether the package has been opened all matter.
For example, USDA guidance recommends keeping fresh meat and poultry refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, with ground meats and poultry generally having shorter
