How to Properly Store & Thaw Your Meat from The Carnivore Market

At The Carnivore Market, we take pride in delivering the highest-quality meats straight to your door. To ensure the best flavor, texture, and safety, it’s essential to store and thaw your meats properly. Follow this simple guide to make the most of your premium cuts.

Upon Delivery

When your order arrives, it’s important to store your meat correctly right away. Your package may include dry ice to keep products frozen during shipping. It’s normal if the dry ice has dissipated by the time your delivery arrives.

Here’s what to do when you receive your order:

✅ Handle Dry Ice with Care – If any dry ice remains in the box, avoid touching it with bare hands. Use gloves or oven mitts to dispose of it, or let it evaporate naturally in a well-ventilated area.

✅ Check the Temperature – Your meat should be frozen or cold when it arrives. If it’s slightly chilled, you can still store it in the freezer.

✅ Store Immediately – Place steaks, roasts, and other frozen items in the freezer unless you plan to cook them within 48 hours. If using within two days, store them in the refrigerator.

Freezer Storage Guidelines

For the best quality, keep your freezer at 0°F or below. Here’s how long different meats can be stored:

• Up to 3 months – Crab cakes, crab legs, scallops, shrimp, smoked salmon, appetizers.

• Up to 6 months – Burgers, beef Wellington, veal chops, pork chops, lobster tails, fish, steak dogs.

• Up to 9 months – Lamb chops, lamb roasts, uncooked pork ribs, bison, chicken breasts, duck legs.

• Up to 12 months – Beef steaks, beef roasts, tenderloin tips, sirloin strips, precooked ribs, duck breasts, steak-cut bacon, ham, and heat-and-serve products.

Proper storage ensures your meat stays fresh, juicy, and full of flavor when it’s time to cook.

How to Thaw Your Meat the Right Way

The best way to thaw your premium cuts is in the refrigerator while still in their vacuum-sealed package. This method preserves the natural juices, keeping your meat tender and flavorful.

Thawing Times

• Smaller cuts (steaks, chops, chicken breasts): 24 hours in the refrigerator.

• Larger cuts (roasts, hams): 48–60 hours in the refrigerator.

• General rule: Allow 5–6 hours per pound for proper thawing.

Important Thawing Tips

❌ Never thaw at room temperature or under hot water. This can cause bacteria growth and affect the meat’s quality.

✅ Use a dish or pan when thawing. Sometimes, vacuum-sealed packages can develop small pinholes, causing minor leaks. Always place thawing meat on a baking dish or tray to catch any juices.

✅ Refreezing thawed meat: If your steak or chop has been thawed in the refrigerator for less than a day, you can safely refreeze it.

Check out "The Best Way to Thaw Steak for Maximum Flavor" blog post on this topic.

Enjoy the Best of The Carnivore Market

Proper storage and thawing help you get the best flavor and texture from your meat. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll always have a perfectly fresh, high-quality cut ready to cook.

Looking for premium steaks, roasts, and specialty meats? Shop now at The Carnivore Market!