How to Properly Store Lamb: A Guide to Maximizing Freshness in the Fridge and Freezer

Everything You Need to Know About Storing Lamb
Storing lamb properly is essential to preserving its flavour, texture, and safety. Whether you're preparing lamb sausages, steaks, or roasts, follow these guidelines for optimal storage in your fridge and freezer.

In the Fridge:
To keep your lamb fresh and flavorful, proper fridge storage is key.

● Remove the packaging and transfer the lamb to a plate. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil, ensuring the juices don’t spill or leak.
● Store on the lowest fridge shelf to avoid any contact with cooked foods, preventing cross-contamination.
● Be sure to consume your lamb before its use-by date for the best quality and taste.

Lamb Fridge Storage Times
The ideal fridge temperature for storing lamb is between 4°C to 5°C. Here’s a quick guide on how long different lamb cuts can stay fresh in the fridge:

● Sausages, mince, strips, diced lamb, and thin steaks: 2 days
● Steaks, boned and rolled roasts: 2–3 days
● Bone-in roasts: 3–4 days
● Unopened vacuum-packed lamb: 8–12 weeks (always check the package for specific use-by dates)

In the Freezer:
To extend the life of your lamb, freezing is a great option. However, it’s important to prep your lamb properly before freezing.

● Prep your lamb for freezing as soon as possible after bringing it home.
● Trim excess fat on cuts, level out butcher’s mince, and divide lamb into meal-sized portions to ensure even defrosting later.
● Use airtight plastic freezer bags to seal the lamb, and for added protection, wrap the bagged lamb in foil. If you want to avoid freezer burn and extend shelf life, consider using a vacuum sealer.
● Always label the bag with the lamb cut, weight, and freezing date.

Lamb Freezer Storage Times
The recommended freezer temperature for lamb is -18°C to -15°C. Use this guide to determine how long your lamb can last in the freezer:

● Sausages: 1–2 months
● Mince, strips, diced lamb, thin steaks: 2–3 months
● Steaks: 3–4 months
● Boned and rolled roasts, bone-in roasts, unopened vacuum packs: 4–6 months
● Cooked lamb dishes: 1 month

A Common Question:
Why can you freeze fresh lamb longer than cooked lamb?
It’s all about the ingredients! Cooked lamb often includes garlic, onions, and other flavorings. These ingredients tend to oxidize in the freezer over time, causing the dish to taste slightly off. Fresh lamb, on the other hand, doesn’t have this issue, making it last longer in the freezer.

By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy delicious, tender lamb whenever you're ready to cook it.