When packaging what is the time frame from processing to "use by" for a label ?

Hi, I have been trying to find the time frame between processing and use by dates to add to the label... Also if anyone knows the link for this info I would really appreciate it if you could share I have come across all of the info except this. Thank you

Hi there,

Disclaimer: I'm not a pro, just have layers and occasionally raiser broilers in my backyard.

I have kept processed birds in the fridge for 7-8 days with no noticeable loss of quality.
If you mean how long can you keep packaged chickens in the freezer, tonight we just cooked up chicken that had been processed and frozen 9/2014 ( "lost" at the bottom of the freezer). It still tastes fine. There was a tiny bit of frost bite on the wings but it was easy to trim off and my dog loved it.

Good luck!

The big processors are always held to a more punitive time frame than everyone else, so grocery store timelines are probably the safest as long as processing is done correctly and in a mostly sterile/sanitized environment.

However, there are a few factors that are in play for the average person:

After processing, loose packaging will give you the least possible timeline. Vacuum sealing will give several years, chamber sealing will give you about double that.

Freezer temp should be zero F or less for the longest storage, "just frozen" will be considerably less. Most fridge freezers won't do well for long term storage. Chest freezers suck for organizing, but will be the most efficient at lower temps and the cheapest square footage.


We have pork/beef/fish/poultry that taste just fine after 3 years, that are vacuum sealed and kept cold at zero F. The chamber sealed meat doesn't even lose its color after a few years.

BUT, don't take chances! Do what's comfortable for you and cook everything to appropriate temps before eating.

Thank you but I was looking for what to put on packaging labels... EX... Process date... Best Use By Date.. Trying to find the total days that should be in between the two.. Also when I freeze I use shrink bags (which I love) & freeze at the FF setting on my chest freezer, then keep it at -2 .

If you're going to sell them, or want factual clarification: that would be dictated by state and USDA laws. Try the local Ag or extension offices and find out who can help you. Our state USDA inspector is the go to guy here, but that will vary by area.

I have looked on many sites for this info.. the only answer I kept coming up with was that it is left up to the stores to determine the time frame.. Thank you all for your response's

Is a 'best by' date required for packaging? I found nothing to say it was when researching the legalities of selling broilers from a small farm (in NJ).