Learn How to Safely Store and Thaw Your Dogs Meals
Highlights
- Properly store bulk raw dog food in a freezer set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower to maintain freshness for up to six months.
- Thaw raw dog food slowly in the refrigerator to preserve its nutritional value and prevent spoiling.
- Refreezing unused portions is safe, but repeated freezing and thawing may affect the texture and flavor of the raw food.
- Store bulk raw dog food in a dedicated freezer to avoid temperature fluctuations and ensure long-lasting freshness.
When you choose to store bulk raw dog food, proper handling is essential to ensure its safety and freshness. RawFedK9 takes pride in delivering high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food, but how you store it at home plays a crucial role in maintaining those standards. Here’s a guide to help you safely store and handle your bulk raw dog food.
How Will My Product Arrive?
When you order from RawFedK9, expect that your food may arrive partially to fully thawed out and still cold. This is completely normal and does not compromise the quality or safety of the product. Our raw dog food is shipped frozen solid in insulated coolers surrounded by dry ice and an ice pack. The dry ice may evaporate during transit, allowing the food to thaw slightly while remaining cool. This refrigeration effect ensures that your dog’s food stays fresh during delivery.
Freezer Requirements and Storage
Upon arrival, it’s crucial to immediately store bulk raw dog food in the freezer to prevent spoilage. A standard home freezer is sufficient for storing bulk raw dog food. For those purchasing in large quantities, consider dedicating a separate freezer to ensure you have enough space and to avoid frequent opening and closing, which can cause temperature fluctuations. 
The shelf life of raw dog food in the freezer can vary, but generally, it remains fresh for up to six months when stored properly. Ensure your freezer is set to a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or lower to keep the food frozen solid and safe for consumption.
Thawing
When it’s time to feed your dog, always thaw the food by tempering it in the refrigerator. Place the portion you plan to use in a sealed container and let it thaw slowly over 24 hours. Never microwave raw dog food, as this can partially cook it, leading to the loss of essential nutrients and potential safety risks.
Some dogs prefer their food partially frozen, while others like it fully thawed. You can experiment to see what your dog prefers, but rest assured, either option is safe as long as the food has been properly stored and handled.
Ensuring Long-Lasting Freshness
Once thawed, raw dog food should be used within 2-3 days to ensure it remains fresh. If you thaw more than you need, you can refreeze the unused portion but be mindful that repeated freezing and thawing can affect texture and flavor, which might be less appealing to your dog.
By following these guidelines—freezing immediately upon arrival, thawing slowly in the refrigerator, and feeding according to your dog’s preferences—you can ensure that your dog enjoys the full benefits of a raw diet without compromising on quality. With the right storage practices, you can confidently buy in bulk and provide your dog with fresh, nutritious meals every day.