How to Chill Meat

Keep meat cool so it does not go to waste.

Refrigerating meat will keep it from spoiling and will allow you to keep some different cuts on hand for easy meal preparation. Keeping meat chilled slows the growth of food spoiling bacteria and keeps meat edible longer. As long as meat is stored properly in the refrigerator, it can be eaten within four days. To keep meat edible longer, chill it first and transfer it to the freezer. Keeping meat stored properly keeps meat accessible without wasting money throwing out spoiled food.

Things You'll Need

• Cooler
• Ice
• Soap
• Water
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Fill a cooler with ice. Place the purchased meat in the cooler to keep it chilled on the trip from the store to your home.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

3. Remove the store's packaging from the meat and place the meat on a cutting board.

4. Wrap the meat tightly in aluminum foil to avoid contamination from other items in the refrigerator.

5. Lower the temperature, if necessary, in your refrigerator. Meat should be chilled at 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Place meat in the refrigerator and consume with in four days.

Tips & Warnings

• Cured meats can be kept in the original packaging and will stay edible for 60 days.

References

• Purdue University Animal Sciences: Meat Quality and Safety