How to Store Qurbani Meat Safely After Eid ul-Adha

As families across Pakistan celebrate Eid ul-Adha, properly storing Qurbani meat has become an important concern. While many people share meat with relatives, neighbors, and the needy, a large portion is kept for future use.

Food safety experts say it is very important to store meat correctly to keep it fresh and safe. Meat should be kept in a deep freezer at a steady temperature of -18°C (0°F). If frozen properly, Qurbani meat can last up to six months.

Dr. Farah Khan, a food safety expert, said, “Freezing stops bacteria from growing, but it doesn’t kill them. That’s why cleaning and handling meat before freezing is very important.”

She advised people to wash the meat, cut it into small portions, and pack it in airtight freezer-safe bags or containers. This keeps the meat from drying out and helps avoid freezer burn.

Experts also warned about frequent power cuts and load shedding. Opening the freezer again and again during a power cut causes the temperature to change. This can make the meat spoil. To prevent this, store the meat in small packets. Take out only what you need and avoid thawing and refreezing the same meat.

It is also helpful to label each packet with the date it was frozen. Keep raw meat separate from vegetables and cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.

By following these simple steps, families can enjoy safe and tasty Qurbani meat for many weeks after Eid.