How Long Does Raw Pet Food Last?

How Long Does Raw Pet Food Last?

Raw pet foods typically have different expiration, storage, and preparation requirements than traditional dry kibble. Understanding the proper way to handle raw dog or cat food ensures its safety and quality for your pet. Whether you’re new to Primal Pet Foods or just looking for a refresher, explore our guide to find tips for storing and preparing raw pet food and get answers to frequently asked questions.

How Long Does Freeze-Dried Raw Pet Food Last?

Our Complete & Balanced Freeze-Dried Raw recipes are shelf-stable, meaning they can stay fresh for long periods of time without refrigeration. The packaging will always provide the best by date and include proper storage techniques to ensure your pet's food stays fresh. 

How Long Does Frozen Raw Pet Food Last in Different Conditions?

If you’ve chosen one of Primal Pet’s frozen raw pet foods, you should know how long you can safely keep it in various conditions to ensure safety and prevent waste.

  • The Freezer: An unopened bag of frozen raw pet food remains fresh until the best by date listed on the back of the package. 

  • The Fridge: Once moved to the refrigerator and thawed completely, our Frozen Raw Recipes maintain optimum freshness for up to 7 days. Be sure to cycle the freshest food to the back so you use what’s been thawed the longest first. 

  • Room Temperature: Once thawed, raw pet food should be left at room temperature for no longer than two hours. 

Safe Practices for Storing Raw Pet Food

Proper storage of raw pet foods is essential for maintaining its nutritional value and freshness. Best practices for storage vary by product type:

  • Freeze-Dried Raw Complete & Balanced Recipes: If rehydrating, keep refrigerated and feed within 5 days for optimum freshness. 

  • Kibble in the Raw: Kibble in the Raw is freeze-dried and shelf stable and therefore does not need to be refrigerated. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from other foods. Be sure to seal the bag completely after opening.

  • Frozen Raw Complete & Balanced Recipes: Frozen raw food should be stored in the freezer and thawed in the refrigerator prior to feeding.

Tips for Handling Raw Pet Food 

Raw pet foods require careful handling. Follow these tips to prevent cross-contamination when preparing any type of raw food for your pet:

  • Use a stainless steel bowl. 

  • Thoroughly clean all work surfaces and utensils after use. 

  • Wash hands with warm soapy water as soon as you have finished.

  • Keep raw meat away from children and prepared foods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raw Pet Food Storage

Many pet parents are unsure of the differences between raw food ingredients and the traditional kibble they may be used to. This often brings up questions about what you can and can’t do with it, how to prepare it, and how to monitor it for freshness. We’re here to help. 

How Do You Properly Thaw Frozen Raw Pet Food?

The proper way to thaw frozen raw pet food depends on what type it is. For Primal Pet Foods products, you can follow these guidelines:

  • Primal Pet Foods Frozen Raw Nuggets and Patties can be thawed in pre-portioned containers in the refrigerator. Both Nuggets and Patties will thaw in approximately 10 hours of refrigeration and maintain optimum freshness for up to 7 days. 

  • Frozen Raw Scoopable Pronto can be thawed on the countertop directly in your pet’s food bowl. Pronto will thaw within minutes and can then be served to your pet.

Always remember: Frozen raw food should be thawed completely before consumption!

 

Have Questions about Storing and Handling Raw Pet Food?

Pay attention to the expiration date listed on the package and closely follow storage guidelines to maintain optimal freshness and longevity. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your pet’s food, don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service team. 

How Long Does Bone Broth Last in the Refrigerator?

Our bone broth should be kept frozen until it is ready for use. Once in the refrigerator, the product should be used within seven days of thawing. If you use bone broth to add moisture to your dog’s or cat’s food, use it all or discard the excess within this time frame.

Understanding the various storage and preparation methods may help you decide whether to serve your cat or dog shelf-stable, freeze-dried, or frozen raw pet food.

 

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