How to Store Fresh Meat

Bringing home great meat is only half the job. Proper storage helps protect its quality, freshness and flavor until you’re ready to cook.

KEEP IT COLD

Refrigerate fresh meat as soon as you get home. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and avoid leaving meat sitting out at room temperature longer than necessary.

STORE IT LOW

Keep raw meat on the lowest refrigerator shelf or in a designated drawer. This helps prevent juices from accidentally dripping onto other foods.

KNOW THE TIMELINE

Fresh steaks, chops and roasts can generally stay refrigerated for 3–5 days, while ground meat and raw chicken are best used within 1–2 days.

NOT USING IT SOON?

If your plans change and you won’t be cooking the meat within its recommended refrigerator window, freeze it. Proper freezing helps preserve quality until you’re ready to use it.

big meats tip

Have a plan when you leave the butcher counter. If you’re not cooking your meat within the next few days, freezing it right away is better than waiting until the last minute.