How Long Does Beef Last in the Freezer?

If you’ve ever found a mystery package of meat in the back of your freezer and wondered “Is this still good?”, you’re not alone. We get this question a lot at Creamery Creek, and the good news is: beef lasts a long time in the freezer when it’s stored right.

Let’s break it all down.

Freezing Beef is Like Hitting Pause

Freezing beef doesn’t ruin it, in fact, it’s one of the best ways to keep it safe and ready for later. When you freeze meat, you’re pressing pause on the clock. It doesn’t spoil in the freezer like it would in the fridge, because the cold stops bacteria from growing.

But not all frozen beef is the same. A few things make a difference in how long it stays good:

• The type of cut
• How it’s packaged
• How cold and consistent your freezer is
• How much light it’s exposed to

How Long Does Beef Really Last?

Here’s a general rule of thumb we follow at the farm: (tl;dr)

Ground beef: Best if used within 6 months

Steaks, roasts, and whole muscle cuts: Best within 12 months.

Ground beef has been exposed to more oxygen, has more surface area and is a little more sensitive to freezer conditions, so it doesn’t last quite as long. Whole cuts hold up better for the long haul.  

But keep in mind, it's for quality. The beef would still be safe beyond those times, but it could start to lose flavor, texture, or get freezer burn.  

What's Freezer Burn?

Freezer burn happens when air sneaks in and dries out part of the meat. It can look frosty, gray, or a little leathery. It’s not harmful, but it doesn’t taste great either. To avoid it, keep your beef tightly sealed and away from air and light. That’s why we vacuum-seal all of our cuts right here on the farm, so you don’t have to worry.

A Cold, Dark Freezer is Best

The ideal freezer temperature is 0°F or colder. The more consistent the temp, the better!  If you’re using a garage freezer that warms up on hot days, it’s something to keep an eye on.

Light matters too. Light exposure can lead to oxidation, which affects flavor over time. Tucking your meat in a drawer or opaque bin can help.

All in All

If you bought beef from Creamery Creek, it’s already been packaged to last. Store it cold, dark, and sealed tight, and your steaks will be waiting patiently, whether dinner’s next week or six months down the road.

Got a full freezer? That’s a good kind of problem. Our Beef Bundles and creekclub subscription boxes are designed for just that, vacuum-sealed, freezer-ready, and packed with cuts you’ll be glad to have on hand. Take a peek at what’s in stock or sign up for monthly deliveries that keep your freezer full and your table happy.

Keep it real, 

LOuisa