My hubby won’t eat marinated steak left out for 8 hours. He insists it’s gone bad and dispose of it. I don’t think so. How long does marinated steak last in the fridge? I want to be certain

Food safety is a crucial aspect of cooking and storing food, especially when it involves protein-rich foods like meat. Understanding how to properly handle and store marinated meats can help prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure that your meals are delicious and safe to eat.

In this article, you will learn about the lifespan of marinated steak in the refrigerator, the indicators of spoilage, and tips for safely marinating steak. This information is essential for anyone who loves cooking and wants to maintain the highest standards of food safety and quality without wasting food.

When it comes to marinating steak, the primary considerations are not only flavor and tenderness but also food safety. Here’s what you should know:

1. Generally, marinated steak can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This timeframe assumes that the refrigerator is consistently at or below 40°F (4°C).

2. The type of marinade can influence how long the steak can be refrigerated. Acidic marinades, which include ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice, can sometimes cause the meat surface to become mushy if left marinating for too long.

3. If your steak has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C)), it should be discarded. Bacteria grow rapidly at room temperature, making the steak unsafe to eat.

It’s important to be able to identify whether marinated steak has spoiled before you decide to cook or discard it. Here are a few indicators:

1. Odor
: Spoiled steak often has an off, sour, or ammonia-like smell that is noticeable even through the marinade.

2. Texture
: If the steak feels slimy or sticky to the touch after marinating, it may be a sign of bacterial growth.

3. Color
: While marinated steak can change color due to the ingredients in the marinade, be wary if it shows any signs of gray or green discoloration.

To ensure that your marinated steak is not only flavorful but also safe to consume, follow these tips:

1. Always marinate steak in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.

2. Use a food-safe plastic bag or glass container to marinate your steak, keeping it covered to avoid cross-contamination.

3. If you plan to use some of the marinade as a sauce later, set aside a portion before it touches the raw steak, or ensure to bring it to a boil for at least 5 minutes if it was in contact with the raw meat.

By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can enjoy your marinated steaks safely and deliciously, without the risk of foodborne illnesses or food spoilage worries.