Butcher quality meat has a shorter shelf life compared with supermarket meat as it doesn't contain any nasties, like preservatives or additives. This is why meat from a butcher tastes SO much better.
Here's the recommended 'best before' date of fresh meat and seafood:
Raw ground/mince meats, all poultry, seafood, and variety meats: 1 to 2 days.
Raw roasts, steaks, and chops (beef, veal, lamb, and pork): 3 to 5 days.
Cooked meat, poultry, and seafood: 3 to 4 days.
Cured Meats: Refrigerate 2 to 3 weeks.
Of course, if you want to extend the life of the meat you've got the best thing to do is pop it in the freezer (which can extend the shelf life by a few months).
Info courtesy of FoodSafety.gov