Pork Shoulder

[massive meat pipe]

Alright. So I got a good deal on a 6lb. pork shoulder, and am curious as to how long it is safe to have in the fridge, without freezing it. I think I can get to it tomorrow, but if not, how long it will last in the fridge would be good info to have. Any thoughts on this would be great.

[hammerpb]

I've never kept one more than about 10 days, and thats in my meat drawer, which stays about 34 degrees. I know you can age beef for considerably longer than that, but I worry about pork, especially something with a lot of fat like a pork butt, going rancid. If you pull it out and it smells bad, chuck it. I've seen people rinse it off and cook it anyway, but not me.
Does it have a sell or freeze by date?

[Capt Dan]

If its in cryo and you know the packing date then its usually 2-4 weeks from that date. If its not in cryo, I agree with hammer, 7-10 days.

[massive meat pipe]

Does it have a sell or freeze by date?

No, no date. Looks very fresh, but I am going to smoke it tomorrow, will be my first one, I'm too excited to wait. Besides, the temps here in the Portland Metro are hanging around the 60's, and I want to see the how the MMP will hold up. Going to rub it tonight, throw it on in the morning. Thank you for the imput.

[hammerpb]

If its the first one you've done yourself, you are in for a treat. Butts are versatile and forgiving, not to mention DELICIOUS!!! Make sure you save and defat the juices that come out when you rest it and pull it. Add it back for moisture, and prepare to bask in the complements of whoever eats it.
Dang, now I'm hungry!

[lynsey123]

Pork give me porrrrk