How does my pre-cooked Costco chicken breast not expire for another 5 weeks?
I bought some "fully cooked chicken breast strips" that are seasoned and has grill lines on them. They're quite tasty. Ingredients also include salt, potato starch, and vinegar.
The label says "best before" a date that is 5 weeks from now. I don't think there is enough salt or vinegar to preserve these since the chicken tastes like normal chicken and these aren't "cured" or pickled or the like. My understanding is cooked chicken usually goes bad after about 5-7 days.
How is this possible?
Best Answer
Keep in mind that the best before date is only valid until the package is opened. Once it is opened, you must treat the chicken strips as if they were fresh and consume them within a few days.
Most likely the chicken is using 'modified atmosphere packaging' (MAP). It's a very common method used to extend shelf life of meats and vegetables but since it doesn't look a whole lot different than regular packaging, many consumers aren't aware of it. Wikipedia has explained the process fairly well. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modified_atmosphere
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How long is Costco chicken breast good for?
You can keep cooked Costco chicken breast in the refrigerator in an air-tight container for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months. make sure you have tightly wrapped your chicken breast before refreezing in order to prevent freezer burn.How long is pre cooked packaged chicken good for?
According to the USDA, you should eat cooked chicken within 3 to 4 days.Can you eat expired pre cooked chicken?
If you suspect that your chicken is spoiled, do not eat it. It's always best to discard chicken that you suspect has gone bad. Eating spoiled chicken can cause food poisoning, even if it's cooked thoroughly.How long is chicken breast good after expiration?
How long is the chicken safe? Officially, the FDA conservatively says that fresh poultry (Chicken or turkey) when refrigerated is good for 1 or 2 days after the sell by date. Nine months when frozen.3 Ways To Cook The Juiciest Chicken Breast Ever - Bobby's Kitchen Basics
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