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As a dog owner, you always want to ensure your dog gets the best nutrition possible. One great way to do this is to stock up on healthy ingredients, like meat, fish, vegetables, dairy, and broth. However, sometimes it can be tough to keep track of how long these items will last in the freezer. In this post, we’ll answer the common question of how long each product can be stored, so you can properly plan your pet's meals and avoid waste.

The following guidelines are what's recommended for humans. Raw feeders can stretch out the time we store food for our dogs a little longer. While the nutrients will begin to degrade after a while, the food is still beneficial.

Meat and Organ Meat

Most types of meat can last in the freezer for up to 12 months if stored properly. It is recommended to wrap the meat in an airtight foil or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and keep the texture and flavor intact. Ground meat can last in the freezer for up to four months, while whole meat cuts like steaks and roasts can be stored for 6-12 months.

Seafood

Fish can last in the freezer for up to six months. Again, ensure it is properly wrapped in parchment paper or plastic wrap for preservation. If the fish was not cleaned before freezing, it is best to clean it at least a day before cooking to ensure freshness and taste.

Vegetables

Most vegetables can last in the freezer for up to 8 months. However, veggies like asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower can only last up to 6 months. It's easier to store vegetables as a veggie mix instead of storing whole vegetables – a veggie mix takes up less space and can be used immediately once thawed. Even though some veggies may not look vibrant after being frozen, they still pack the same nutritious punch!

Dairy

Milk, cheese, and butter can all be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. It is important to choose the right storage container to avoid freezer burn, as the texture of the dairy can change, and it may not taste as good once thawed. After thawing, use dairy products within a few days, as they can spoil quickly. However, raw and fermented dairy products will last longer.

Bone Broth

Homemade broth can last in the freezer for up to 6-8 months, while store-bought broth can be stored for up to 12 months. It’s important to use tight-fitting containers, and to leave some space at the top to prevent container rupture from the expansion of the frozen liquid. Thawed broth can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezer Dumps / Old Meat

Many raw feeders benefit from freezer dumps, accepting old meat from friends and family that can be fed to their dogs. If the meat is less than two years old, I'll include it in my next meal prep, mixing it with new meat. I'll dehydrate older meat and seafood, making homemade dog treats. I make frozen treats with old dairy products (raw goat's milk, kefir, and yogurt), mixing in berries, watermelon, and apples.

I don't mind feeding my dogs old meat, but I don't make a habit of it.

Stocking Up Safely

I buy meat and other food in bulk (by the case) to get a better price. Although I have two dedicated freezers and one refrigerator, I still have limited space, which keeps me from going overboard. I generally have enough food to last a few months, bone broth to last six months, and raw goat's milk and kefir that lasts a couple of years.

Getting Rid of Old Food

I don't often have to get rid of old food, but when something is approaching the three-year mark, I'll do one of two things:

1. I look online for a recipe for dog food or treats; or a recipe that I can modify for my dogs.
2. I reach out to local raw feeders to see if anyone would like the food.

If neither of these is an option, then I'll throw the food away the day before trash day. No need to attract the local coyotes to the trash can.

Read More about Raw Feeding

• Books to Help Dog Owners Feed Their Dog Better
• The Truth About Raw Feeding
• What You Don't Know About Chia, Hemp, and Flaxseeds
• Vitamin D Deficiency in Dogs: Symptoms and Solutions
• Is the Billinghurst Institute Professional Raw Feeding Course Worth It?