It’s always best to follow the use-by dates on your food which are always carefully calculated by food producers. But, if you have unused meat products, it is safe to consume them after their use-by date has passed. For example, vacuum-sealed beef will remain fresh for up to a year in the freezer, even after the use date has passed. As long as there are no visible signs of damage or deterioration, such as a puncture or tear, it should be safe to eat.