While it might be tempting to buy lunch meat in bulk, it may not be wise. According to the USDA, you can keep lunch meat in the fridge for only three to five days after opening it.

However, the actual shelf life relies on factors like the meat type and the packaging method. Fermented and dried meats last up to three weeks, while fresh deli meats spoil quickly.

Unfortunately, expiration dates on food products, including lunch meats, are not always reliable due to the absence of government regulations, which can often lead to confusion.

Those “best by,” “sell by,” or “use by” dates are merely an estimate of when the food will be at peak quality. After the date passes, the food remains edible for a few more days.

Exercise caution and trust your senses when determining the safety of lunch meat for consumption. Mold, discoloration, and sour or yeasty odors are clear indicators of spoilage.