How Long Does Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein Last?

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein offers a convenient and tasty meal option for busy households. This frozen skillet meal combines tender beef strips, lo mein noodles, and vegetables in a savory sauce. While it’s quick to prepare, many consumers wonder about its shelf life after cooking.

Once cooked, Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein should be consumed within 2 hours or stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below for 3 to 4 days. Proper storage is crucial to maintain food safety and quality. Refrigerating the leftovers promptly helps prevent bacterial growth and preserve the dish’s flavor and texture.

To maximize the longevity of cooked Beef Lo Mein, it’s essential to store it in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. This practice minimizes exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to spoilage. When reheating, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any potential foodborne pathogens.

Overview of Birdseye Voila! Beef Lo Mein

A steaming plate of Birdseye Voila! Beef Lo Mein sits on a kitchen counter, surrounded by colorful vegetables and savory aromas

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein is a frozen skillet meal designed for quick and convenient preparation. It features a combination of traditional lo mein noodles, beef, and vegetables in a savory sauce.

Key Ingredients

The meal includes tender strips of seasoned cooked beef as the main protein source. Lo mein noodles form the base of the dish, providing a familiar texture and taste. Vegetables play a crucial role, with bok choy, onions, and carrots adding nutrition and flavor variety.

Birds Eye uses premium quality vegetables in their Voila! line. The sauce ties all components together, creating a savory Asian-inspired flavor profile. Notably, the product contains no artificial flavors, aligning with consumer preferences for more natural ingredients.

The meal comes frozen and can be prepared quickly in a skillet, typically taking around 20 minutes from freezer to table.

Nutritional Profile

A 2 1/4 cup serving of Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein contains 250 calories. The meal provides a balance of macronutrients, including protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the noodles and vegetables.

The sodium content is 970mg per serving, which is 40% of the daily recommended value. It contains 1.5g of saturated fat, representing 8% of the daily value. The product has 8g of sugars per serving.

While offering convenience, the nutritional profile suggests moderation in consumption, particularly for those monitoring sodium intake. The inclusion of vegetables enhances the meal’s nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Shelf Life and Storage Instructions

A package of Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein sits on a pantry shelf, surrounded by other frozen food items

Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein has specific storage requirements to maintain its quality and safety. Proper handling extends the product’s usability and prevents foodborne illness.

Unopened Shelf Life

The unopened package of Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months. This shelf life applies when the product is kept at a constant temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.

To ensure optimal quality, consumers should check the “Best By” date printed on the package. While the product may remain safe to eat beyond this date, its flavor and texture might deteriorate.

It’s crucial to keep the package sealed and undamaged. Any tears or punctures in the packaging can lead to freezer burn and quality loss.

Storing After Opening

Once opened, Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein should be consumed within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container promptly after cooking.

Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below to inhibit bacterial growth. Do not leave the cooked meal at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can promote the growth of harmful bacteria.

When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) throughout. This kills any potential bacteria that may have developed during storage.

Freezer Life

Cooked Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein can be frozen for future consumption. When properly stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

To freeze:

  • Cool the cooked meal completely
  • Portion into serving sizes
  • Place in freezer-safe containers or bags
  • Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn
  • Label with the date of freezing

When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat thoroughly before consuming. Do not refreeze previously frozen leftovers to maintain food safety standards.

Preparation Guidelines

A steaming plate of beef lo mein surrounded by fresh vegetables and savory sauce, ready to be enjoyed

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein offers quick and convenient meal options. The product can be prepared using either a microwave or stovetop skillet method.

Microwave Instructions

Place the frozen Beef Lo Mein in a microwave-safe dish. Cook on high for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.

For best results, ensure even heating by spreading the contents in a single layer. Cooking times may vary depending on microwave wattage.

Adjust cooking time as needed to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use caution when removing the dish, as it will be hot.

Skillet Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen Beef Lo Mein to the skillet.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently. Ensure the beef is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

For optimal flavor, allow the noodles to crisp slightly in the pan. Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too dry during cooking.

Serve immediately for best taste and texture. The skillet method often results in a more restaurant-like finish compared to microwave preparation.

Dietary and Allergen Information

A steaming plate of Birds Eye Voila beef lo mein sits on a kitchen table, surrounded by colorful vegetables and a clear expiration date label

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein contains important nutritional components and potential allergens. Understanding these details helps consumers make informed dietary choices.

Allergen Details

The product may contain common allergens such as soy, wheat, and beef. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution. The sauce used in the dish might also include traces of other allergens.

Cross-contamination during production is a possibility, so those with severe allergies should consult the packaging or contact the manufacturer for specific information.

Dietary Considerations

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein provides a mix of macronutrients. A 211g serving contains approximately:

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 4.5g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Sodium: 970mg (40% DV)

The meal is a source of protein from beef. It contains vegetables like bok choy and carrots, adding nutritional value. The sodium content is relatively high, accounting for 40% of the daily recommended value.

Those monitoring calorie intake or following specific diets should note the nutritional breakdown. The product contains no artificial flavors, which may appeal to consumers seeking more natural options.

Nutritional Highlights and Health Benefits

A steaming bowl of beef lo mein surrounded by colorful vegetables and herbs, with a label indicating its nutritional highlights and health benefits

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein offers a balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. This convenient meal provides protein, carbohydrates, and a moderate amount of fat, along with several key nutrients that contribute to overall health.

Protein Content

The beef in this dish serves as a quality protein source. A single serving contains approximately 13-14 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair. Protein also helps promote satiety, potentially aiding in weight management.

The beef provides high-quality, complete protein with all essential amino acids. This makes it valuable for those looking to meet their daily protein requirements efficiently.

Vitamin and Mineral Benefits

Birds Eye Voila! Beef Lo Mein contains several important vitamins and minerals. Iron, found in the beef component, supports red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body.

The vegetable mix, including bok choy and carrots, contributes vitamins A and C. These antioxidants support immune function and promote healthy skin and vision.

While not a significant source, the meal does contain small amounts of potassium from the vegetables. Potassium is crucial for proper heart and muscle function.

The exact vitamin D content is not specified in the available nutritional information. However, fortified foods often include this nutrient to support bone health.

Practical Tips for Consumption

A steaming plate of Birds Eye Voila beef lo mein sits on a kitchen table, surrounded by chopsticks and a colorful napkin

Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein offers a convenient meal solution for busy weeknights. Proper heating and serving techniques can enhance the flavor and enjoyment of this quick dinner option.

Best Practices for Heating

Skillet cooking is the recommended method for Birds Eye Voila Beef Lo Mein. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the frozen contents of the bag and 1/4 cup of water. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

For best results, avoid overcooking. The vegetables should remain crisp-tender. If the sauce thickens too much, add a small amount of water.

Microwave heating is possible but may result in less even cooking. Follow package instructions for microwave timing.

Serving Suggestions

The standard serving size is about 2 1/4 cups, providing a balanced meal for one person. For family meals, consider preparing two bags.

Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve in individual bowls for an authentic Asian dining experience.

Pair with a side of steamed edamame or a small salad to increase vegetable intake. For larger appetites, add an egg roll or spring roll as a side dish.

Consider customizing the meal by adding extra vegetables like bean sprouts or water chestnuts for crunch and nutrition.