How many days can meat marinade in the refrigerator?

The length of time you can marinate meat in the refrigerator depends on several factors, including the type of meat, the acidity of the marinade, and the temperature of your refrigerator.

Type of Meat

- Red meats, such as beef, lamb, and pork, can generally be marinated for longer than white meats, such as chicken and fish.

- Poultry and seafood should generally be marinated for no more than 24 hours. This is because they are more prone to spoilage than red meats.

Acidity of the Marinade

- Marinades that contain acidic ingredients, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt, can help to preserve the meat and extend its shelf life. Meats marinated in acidic marinades can typically be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

- Marinades that do not contain acidic ingredients should not be used to marinate meat for more than 24 hours.

Temperature of the Refrigerator

- The temperature of your refrigerator also plays a role in how long you can marinate meat. Meat marinated in a refrigerator set at 40°F (4°C) or below will typically last longer than meat marinated in a warmer refrigerator.

Here is a general guideline for how long you can marinate different types of meat in the refrigerator:

* Red meats (beef, lamb, pork): 2-5 days

* Poultry (chicken, turkey): 1-2 days

* Seafood (fish, shellfish): 1 day

It's important to note that these are just guidelines, and the actual shelf life of your marinated meat may vary. Always use your best judgment and discard any meat that shows signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, slimy texture, or unusual color.