How long can we Store Meat in the Refrigerator?

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Millions of deadly microorganisms are present in our surrounding environment. They harbor every imaginable space including soil, air, water, human bodies, and even food. These organisms are so minute that they remain invisible to the naked eyes. These parasites exhibit a typical way of reproduction. When they find a nutrient source (such as Meat), a favorable temperature and moisture, they start growing rapidly. It has been found that all edible meat harbor microorganisms like E. coli, botulism, staphylococcus, listeria and salmonella. At room temperature, these microbes multiply at a fast, exponential rate.  However, growth of the parasites never stops in a Refrigerator. Refrigeration forces the microorganisms to go into dormancy. Hence after a certain period, frozen Meat become unfit  for consumption. Every category of  meat products has an “expiry” date and people must be seriously concerned about it.

How long can the Different meats be stored in the Freezer? 

One must always try to buy Meat in consumable quantities instead of storing them  for longer periods of time.

• Sausage and bacon can be refrigerated up to two months.
• Whole raw poultry meat can be refrigerated between one to two months. However, chicken parts can be preserved for nine months.
• Ham, cold cuts, hot dogs and cooked meat can be preserved up to three months.
• Raw and ground meat can be preserved for four months.
• Raw roast, steaks and chops can be refrigerated for twelve months.

What is the Proper way to Store meat in a Refrigerator? 

If you want to extend the shelf life of the Meat in the Refrigerator, use double packing. Extra packing will protect the Meat from freezer burns which often spoil the taste and consistency of the flesh. Besides, the double layering will prevent air and moisture from entering the Meat. For a longer preservation, Meat must be stored in a separate freezer unit. Different packing styles are described below:

• Large joints of beef, pork, veal, and lamb must be wrapped in durable polythene bags and then over-wrapped with cling film. 
• Fried Meat products such as chops, sausages, hamburgers, steaks and cutlets must be wrapped in waxed paper. It must further re-packed in freezer bags, plastic containers, aluminium foil or cling film.
• Minced Meat must be wrapped in durable polythene and re-packed in cling film. Later, it can be stored in an aluminium foil.

What is the Right way to Defrost Meat before consumption?

• Frozen Meat must be defrosted properly and safely. Meat can be safely defrosted in the Refrigerator. For every five pounds of Meat, a whole day is required.
• Frosted Meat can also be placed in a microwave or soaked in warm water for faster defrosting. 

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