[header] How to know if meat is bad [title] Examine the meat's package for an expiration date. [step] The shelf life for red meat is approximately 1-3 days if it is raw and 7-10 days if it is cooked. Throw away any meat that has passed this expiration date to avoid food poisoning. 
[title] Check the meat for a foul smell. [step] If your meat smells rancid, it most likely is.