How long can I store sous vide cooked meat in the refrigerator or freezer?

Question

How long can you store sous vide cooked meat in the fridge or freezer? Get guidelines for how to safely store your cooked meat for meal prep.

Answer 1

Sous vide cooked meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days if properly chilled and sealed, or in the freezer for several months.

Detailed Explanation:

The extended shelf life of sous vide cooked food is due to the precise temperature control and vacuum sealing, which minimizes bacterial growth. However, proper handling is crucial. Here's a breakdown:

1. Cooking: Ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature for the appropriate duration, as specified by sous vide cooking charts. This pasteurizes the food, killing harmful bacteria.

2. Chilling: Rapidly chill the cooked meat in an ice bath immediately after cooking. The goal is to bring the internal temperature below 40°F (4°C) within two hours. This prevents the growth of any remaining bacteria.

3. Storage (Refrigerator): If properly cooked, chilled, and the bag remains sealed, the meat can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Discard if the seal is broken or if there are any signs of spoilage (off odor, discoloration).

4. Storage (Freezer): For longer storage, freeze the sous vide cooked meat. It can be stored in the freezer for several months without significant loss of quality. Make sure the bag is freezer-safe to prevent freezer burn.

5. Thawing: Thaw frozen sous vide meat in the refrigerator for food safety. Do not thaw at room temperature.

Pro Tip:

Always label your sous vide cooked food with the date of cooking and the contents before refrigerating or freezing. This helps you keep track of how long it has been stored and prevents accidental consumption of spoiled food.