Freshpet meals are a popular choice for pet owners looking for fresh, refrigerated food made with real meat and no preservatives. These convenient meals in resealable bags are loved by both pets and their parents. But a common question arises: how long is Freshpet good after opening? Ensuring proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and quality of Freshpet, keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.
Understanding Freshpet’s Freshness and Storage Needs
Freshpet stands out because it’s made with fresh ingredients and lacks the preservatives found in many traditional pet foods. This freshness is what makes it appealing to pets, but it also means it requires refrigeration, just like fresh human food. Once you open a bag of Freshpet, it’s exposed to air and potential contaminants, which can affect its quality over time.
Alt text: A variety of Freshpet bagged meals are neatly arranged on a shelf inside a refrigerator, showcasing the fresh and refrigerated nature of the pet food.
How Long Does Freshpet Last After Opening?
Once opened, Freshpet bagged meals should be used within 7 days. This is clearly stated on Freshpet packaging and is crucial for food safety and quality. Even when refrigerated, opened Freshpet will gradually lose its optimal freshness and may become susceptible to bacterial growth after this period. Always check the “use by” date on the package as well, but the 7-day rule applies specifically after opening the bag.
Best Practices for Storing Freshpet to Maximize Freshness
To ensure your Freshpet stays as fresh and palatable as possible for your pet within that 7-day window, follow these storage best practices:
- Reseal Immediately and Properly: Freshpet bags are designed with a resealable closure. After each serving, make sure to squeeze out any excess air and tightly reseal the bag. This minimizes air exposure, which can dry out the food and accelerate spoilage.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Return the resealed bag to the refrigerator immediately after feeding your pet. Don’t leave it at room temperature for extended periods.
- Maintain Consistent Refrigeration: Store Freshpet in the main compartment of your refrigerator, not the door, where temperatures can fluctuate more. Ensure your refrigerator is set to the proper temperature (typically between 34-40°F or 1-4°C).
- Use a Clean, Dry Measuring Cup: When serving Freshpet, always use a clean, dry measuring cup. Introducing moisture or contaminants into the bag can shorten its freshness.
- Discard Leftovers Promptly: Don’t leave uneaten Freshpet in your pet’s bowl for more than an hour, especially at room temperature. Bacteria can multiply quickly in moist pet food. Discard any leftovers after this time.
Following these storage guidelines will help you keep your Freshpet meals fresh, safe, and delicious for your pet throughout the week after opening.
Quick Serving Guide for Freshpet Bagged Meals
Serving Freshpet bagged meals is straightforward. Here’s a quick reminder:
- Grab: Take your pet’s Freshpet bag from the fridge.
- Open: Open the resealable bag.
- Measure: Use a dry measuring cup to portion out the appropriate amount based on the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag. Remember that feeding guidelines vary by recipe.
- Serve: Your pet’s fresh meal is ready! Reseal the bag and refrigerate the remainder. Discard uneaten food after one hour.
Alt text: A pet owner is shown scooping Freshpet dog food from a resealable bag into a clean, stainless steel dog bowl, illustrating the simple serving process.
While microwaving is typically recommended for Freshpet rolls to enhance aroma and palatability, it’s generally not necessary for bagged meals, which are designed to be served cold directly from the refrigerator.
By understanding the 7-day rule and implementing proper storage practices, you can ensure your pet always enjoys the freshest and most nutritious Freshpet meals possible.
