Storing raw meat correctly is a key part of maintaining food safety and quality. Knowing how long you can keep raw meat in the refrigerator before it goes bad is essential to preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring your family’s safety. This guide will walk you through the basics of storing and keeping raw meat in the refrigerator as well as provide tips for freezing and thawing.
What is the Shelf Life of Raw Meat in the Refrigerator?
The shelf life of raw meat in the refrigerator depends on the type of meat, how it is packaged, and how it is stored. Generally, raw meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. If the raw meat is vacuum-sealed, it can be stored for up to five days.
How to Store Raw Meat in the Refrigerator
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of raw meat. It’s important to store raw meat separately from other foods in the refrigerator, preferably in the bottom shelf or on a shelf that’s at least one inch away from other food.
Raw meat should always be kept in an air-tight container or wrapped in air-tight packaging. If the container or packaging is not air-tight, it can lead to the growth of bacteria and the spoilage of the meat.
When storing raw meat in the refrigerator, it’s important to keep it away from other food items. Raw meat should never be placed directly on top of other food items, as the juices can contaminate them and cause foodborne illnesses.
How to Tell if Raw Meat Has Gone Bad
If raw meat has been stored in the refrigerator for longer than two days (or five days if vacuum sealed) it may be starting to spoil. The best way to tell if raw meat has gone bad is to check for signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, slimy texture, and discoloration. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the meat.
Freezing and Thawing Raw Meat
If you’re not planning to use the raw meat within two days of purchasing it, it’s best to freeze it. Freezing raw meat will extend its shelf life and prevent it from spoiling.
When freezing raw meat, it’s important to note that you should never refreeze meat that has been thawed. If you’ve thawed raw meat, it should be used within two days of thawing.
When thawing raw meat, it’s best to do so in the refrigerator. This will ensure that the meat stays at a safe temperature and prevent bacteria from growing. It’s also important to use the meat within two days of thawing.
Cooking Raw Meat
Once you’ve determined that the raw meat is safe to use, it’s important to cook it properly. Cooking raw meat to the right temperature will help to kill any harmful bacteria and ensure the safety of your meal.
When cooking raw meat, it’s important to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature of the cooked meat will depend on the type of meat you’re cooking. For example, ground beef should be cooked to at least 160°F, while whole cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and veal should be cooked to at least 145°F.
Conclusion
Storing and keeping raw meat in the refrigerator is essential for maintaining food safety and quality. Knowing how long you can keep raw meat in the refrigerator before it goes bad is important for preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring the safety of your family.
By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to store, thaw, and cook raw meat safely and effectively. You’ll also be able to ensure the quality and safety of your meals and protect your family from foodborne illnesses.
Remember, when it comes to food safety and quality, knowledge is power. With this guide, you’ll be better equipped to store, thaw, and cook raw meat safely and effectively.