Purchasing birds in large quantities saves money and promotes healthier eating in your home. Turkey makes a delicious foundation for a variety of dishes, including tacos, tetrazzini, and meatballs and burgers. However, what is the shelf life of ground turkey in the freezer? Find out when to throw it out and how to keep it fresher for longer.
Ground turkey is a versatile and affordable protein option that can be used in various dishes, from burgers and meatballs to tacos and pasta sauces. But how long can you safely keep ground turkey in the freezer before it starts to lose its quality and taste?
The Answer: 3-4 Months for Optimal Freshness, Up to 1 Year for Safety
According to the USDA ground turkey can be safely frozen for up to 1 year. However, for optimal quality and taste, it’s best to use it within 3-4 months of freezing. After that the ground turkey may start to develop freezer burn, which can affect its texture and flavor.
Factors Affecting Ground Turkey’s Freezer Life
Several factors can influence how long ground turkey stays fresh in the freezer:
- Packaging: Ground turkey that is tightly wrapped in freezer-safe packaging will last longer than ground turkey that is loosely wrapped or stored in its original packaging.
- Temperature: The temperature of your freezer is crucial. A freezer that maintains a constant temperature of 0°F (-18°C) will keep ground turkey fresh for longer.
- Exposure to air: Exposure to air can cause freezer burn. Make sure to wrap ground turkey tightly in freezer-safe packaging to minimize air exposure.
Tips for Freezing Ground Turkey
To ensure that your ground turkey stays fresh and flavorful in the freezer, follow these tips:
- Freeze it within 1-2 days of purchase: The sooner you freeze ground turkey, the better it will retain its quality.
- Divide it into portions: Divide ground turkey into the portions you’ll need for recipes to avoid thawing more than you need.
- Wrap it tightly: Wrap ground turkey tightly in freezer-safe packaging, such as freezer bags or plastic wrap.
- Label it: Label the package with the date you froze it and the type of ground turkey (e.g., 93% lean).
- Store it in the coldest part of your freezer: Place the ground turkey packages in the back of your freezer, where the temperature is most consistent.
Thawing Ground Turkey Safely
When you’re ready to use frozen ground turkey, thaw it safely in the refrigerator. Place the package of ground turkey on a plate or tray to catch any drips and thaw it for 24 hours for every 5 pounds of ground turkey.
Signs that Ground Turkey Has Gone Bad
If you’re unsure whether frozen ground turkey is still good, look for these signs of spoilage:
- Discoloration: Ground turkey that has turned gray or brown is likely spoiled.
- Off odor: If the ground turkey has a sour or ammonia-like odor, it’s best to discard it.
- Slimy texture: If the ground turkey feels slimy or sticky, it’s no longer safe to eat.
Ground turkey is a versatile and affordable protein option that can be frozen for later use. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your ground turkey stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3-4 months in the freezer. Remember to thaw frozen ground turkey safely in the refrigerator before using it in your favorite recipes.
How Long is Hamburger Meat Good for in the Freezer?
Hamburger meat, AKA ground beef, should be treated similarly to ground turkey. For the best results, freeze it within 2 days of purchase. It will last in your freezer for up to a year, but it’s best if used within 4 months.
Proceed as you would with ground turkey (see above) when preparing ground beef for freezing.
Ground meat should always be defrosted in the refrigerator to stop the growth of hazardous bacteria.
How to Store Ground Turkey in the Freezer
Check the sell-by date on raw, ground turkey before freezing it. It’s recommended to freeze your ground turkey no later than two days after the sell-by date and preferably within two days of purchase.
Three to four months is the ideal amount of time for ground turkey to stay fresh in the freezer.
While frozen ground turkey can be stored for up to a year, its quality and flavor may gradually deteriorate. Use within four months for best freshest taste.
Pro-Tip: You can keep ground turkey in its original packaging. Tightly wrap in aluminum foil and store in a plastic bag meant for freezing. Don’t forget to write the date on the bag.
How to Thaw Ground Turkey : Hearty Recipes
FAQ
Does ground turkey go bad if frozen?
Is a 2 year frozen turkey safe to eat?
How long is it safe to keep ground turkey in the deep freezer?
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Food
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Type
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Freezer [0°F (-18°C) or below]
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Hamburger, ground meats and ground poultry
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Hamburger, ground beef, turkey, chicken, other poultry, veal, pork, lamb, and mixtures of them
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3 to 4 months
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Fresh beef, veal, lamb, and pork
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Steaks
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4 to 12 months
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Chops
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4 to 12 months
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Roasts
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4 to 12 months
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How long can you freeze turkey meat?
How long can you keep frozen ground turkey?
Frozen ground turkey is safe for up to 1 year in a freezer but may decrease quality and taste over time. For the freshest taste, it’s best to use within 4 months. Pro-Tip: You can keep ground turkey in its original packaging. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-specific plastic bag. Don’t forget to write the date on the bag.
Can cooked ground turkey be frozen?
To further extend the shelf life of cooked ground turkey, it can be frozen in covered airtight containers, heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrapped tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap. While frozen cooked ground turkey will maintain its best quality for about 2 to 3 months, it will remain safe.
Can you put a cooked turkey in the freezer?
Be sure that your freezer is at the proper temperature and open as little as possible so it can maintain freshness longer. Cooked ground turkey can also be stored in the freezer. After cooking, allow it to cool completely then store in airtight freezer safe bags or containers in the freezer. Do not put hot turkey into the freezer.
How do you store ground turkey in the freezer?
One of the most effective methods to store ground turkey involves using heavy-duty freezer bags, plastic wrap, or freezer-safe containers to keep your meat well-sealed and protected from the cold air.