Freezing meat: Keys to safe storage and optimal freshness

How long can meat stay in the freezer? Few people realise that this duration varies depending on its type. We also provide advice on what to consider to ensure that the defrosted product is still safe to consume.

Raw meat can be used to prepare a variety of dishes. We often freeze it so that we can use it for delicious meals at any time. However, we sometimes forget that such products cannot remain in the freezer indefinitely.

Poultry can be frozen for a maximum of 3 months. Meanwhile, beef and veal should not be kept in the freezer for over 8 months. However, if you cut them into smaller pieces beforehand, this period is reduced by two months.

Pork frozen in smaller pieces can be stored in the freezer for about 6 months. However, if it is minced, it should not be frozen for more than 2 months.

The way we store meat in the freezer is essential, especially for products like bacon, pork neck, and shoulder. If vacuum-sealed, it can be frozen without any issues for up to 2 years. More commonly, we place it in special freezer bags. In that case, the meat can be frozen for 3 months.

The fact that we freeze meat does not guarantee it will always be suitable for consumption after defrosting. Something might have gone wrong with it even before placing it in the freezer. So, how can you determine if it is not suitable for consumption?

The first indicator that meat may be spoiled is an unpleasant odour, which is distinctly different from the usual smell of fresh meat. Its texture may often change as well.

It is crucial to remember that consuming spoiled meat can lead to food poisoning, so if anything about it concerns you, it’s better to refrain from consuming it.