Is it safe to eat chicken that has been frozen in the original packaging for 3 years?

Food safety guidelines recommend freezing chicken for a maximum of 9 months for optimal quality and safety.

Here's why it's not safe:

* Spoilage: Over time, even in a freezer, bacteria and enzymes can still break down the chicken, leading to spoilage and off-flavors.

* Texture: Frozen chicken can develop freezer burn, which makes the meat dry and tough.

* Safety Concerns: While frozen chicken is safe to eat for a reasonable amount of time, after 3 years, the risk of foodborne illness significantly increases. Bacteria can multiply even at freezing temperatures, and the longer the chicken is frozen, the higher the risk of contamination.

It's best to discard chicken that has been frozen for 3 years. Even if it appears to be fine, the risk of food poisoning is too high.

Here are some additional tips for safely storing frozen chicken:

* Properly package: Use airtight containers or freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn.

* Label and date: Label the packaging with the date of freezing to track its age.

* First in, first out: Use the oldest frozen chicken first.

* Thawing: Thaw chicken in the refrigerator or in cold water. Never thaw at room temperature.

In summary, it is not safe to eat chicken that has been frozen for 3 years. It's always best to follow food safety guidelines to ensure the quality and safety of your food.