7 Tips for Maintaining Meat at Ideal Storage Temperature – Take Note!

11 months ago
7 Tips for Maintaining Meat at Ideal Storage Temperature – Take Note!

Each type of food product has a different shelf life when stored at cold temperatures. For example, the storage temperature for vegetables and meat cannot be treated the same, as each has different characteristics and risks of microbial contamination.

Generally, meat requires lower storage temperatures than vegetables. So, what is the ideal meat storage temperature to maintain freshness over a long period? Read the complete guide below!

Meat Storage Temperatures by Type

Each type of meat requires different storage temperatures depending on the meat type, condition, and the type of cold storage used. Below are the recommended meat storage temperatures and storage durations:


Types of Meat

Type

Refrigerator Storage Temperature Below4°C

Freezer Storage Temperature Below18°C 

Processed Meat

Has been opened and sliced

3–5 days

1–2 months

Not yet opened

2 weeks

1–2 months

Sausage

Raw meat sausage

1–2 days

1–2 months

Cooked meat sausage

1 week

1–2 months

Ground beef

Burgers, ground beef, turkey, chicken and other poultry, veal, lamb and mixtures thereof.

1–2 days

3–4 months

Beef

Steak

3–5 days

4–12 months

Beef cuts

3–5 days

4–12 months

Poultry

Chicken and turkey

1–2 days

1 year

Chicken and turkey cuts

1–2 days

9 months

Fish meat

Fatty fish (catfish, tuna, salmon, etc.)

1–3 days

2–3 months

Lean fish (headlock, flounder, etc.)

1–3 days

6–8 months

Seafood 

Crab meat

2–4 days

2–4 months

Lobster shrimp

2–4 days

2–4 months

Live crab

1 day

Not recommended

Freshwater lobster

3–5 days

6–18 months

Oyster shells,scallop, and green clams

3–10 days

3–4 months

Squid meat

1–3 days

6–18 months


Read also: 7 Ways to Extend the Shelf Life of Fresh Products

Tips for Storing Meat to Last Longer

After understanding meat storage temperatures, you should also know how to properly store meat so it lasts longer in refrigeration. Here are some useful tips:

1. Package Meat Properly

The first tip is choosing proper packaging for meat. You can use plastic bags, airtight containers, or aluminum foil. Proper storage containers help maintain the freshness, flavor, and texture of the meat.

2. Do Not Wash Meat

It is highly recommended not to wash meat before placing it in refrigeration. Residual water on the meat can increase the risk of bacterial growth.

3. Keep the Refrigerator Clean

Besides maintaining proper freezer storage temperatures, you should also pay attention to freezer cleanliness. Cleaning your freezer or cold storage regularly helps prevent meat contamination caused by bacteria or germs from dirty refrigeration units.

4. Set the Correct Temperature

Storage temperature is another crucial factor. A temperature of 4°C is suitable if the meat will be consumed soon. However, for longer storage periods, it is recommended to store meat in a freezer until fully frozen.

5. Check the Condition of the Meat

Before storing meat, always inspect its condition. If you purchase packaged meat, follow the storage instructions on the packaging and check the expiration date.

For fresh meat, it is best to divide it into smaller portions. This makes packaging easier and helps preserve meat quality.

Read also: Understanding the Difference Between Cold Storage and Regular Freezers!

6. Apply the First In First Out Method

Another useful tip is implementing the first in, first out (FIFO) method. Place older meat products at the front so they can be used first.

You can also label or number meat packages to easily identify which products have been stored longer and which are newly stored.

7. Do Not Refreeze Meat That Has Been Removed from the Freezer

You should also pay attention to meat that has already been removed from refrigeration. Once removed, it should be processed immediately rather than frozen again.

It is also recommended to prepare meat according to the required portion size to avoid leftovers. This can be managed by dividing meat into portions before freezing.

Besides understanding proper meat storage temperatures and methods, another effective way to maintain meat freshness is by utilizing reliable cold chain logistics services such as MGM Bosco Logistics.

As a pioneer in refrigerated logistics services in Indonesia, MGM Bosco Logistics offers various solutions to help maintain meat freshness, including warehouse services.

By using MGM Bosco Logistics’ warehouse services, you will receive high-quality storage solutions. MGM Bosco Logistics’ cold storage warehouses are equipped with environmentally friendly refrigeration technology and built to the highest standards.

MGM Bosco Logistics’ cold storage facilities are also equipped with food-grade standard equipment and handling systems.

With locations and service coverage across various strategic cities in Indonesia, MGM Bosco Logistics is ready to support your end-to-end logistics management needs. If you need further information, do not hesitate to contact us!

Read also: Refrigerated Box Trucks: An Effective Transportation Mode for Maintaining Product Quality