Brisket question

Briskets aren't given a sell buy date until they move from the walk in to the meat case. They all come in with a packed on date on the box but no expiration. They will hold a LONG time at 34-35f but the stores cases are 40f and they don't know how cold your fridge is so they need to put a date on them. I have no problem keeping a brisket properly stored past the sell buy date but I am much more picky about food I serve to others. If it's a family gathering or something I stick to the date.

IMO, you're good keeping 'em in your fridge if the date is 4/5/23 and you're smoking 'em next week.

I think his point is the rate bacteria will form is a function of temp. If your fridge is running just above freezing you could keep them in your fridge beyond 4/5 and they'd still be good.

No problem letting it wet age in the cryo bag in the fridge.

Should be fine in your fridge as others have state, but don't be afraid to freeze it. Worst case; it is still frozen when you are ready to smoke it because you didn't anticipate the opportunity/need. Don't be afraid to put it on your smoker still frozen. With a few adjustments in smoking temp and a fair amount of extra fuel, it will come out fine.