We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

From chicken to pork and more, here is our guide on when to toss these items out.

Hosting a backyard bash full of flavorful grilling recipes or throwing together a hearty family dinner can be a cinch if you’ve got protein options in your freezer. Plus, buying meat in bulk and freezing some for later = major savings. But if that ribeye has been in your freezer for a while, you might be wondering: How long does frozen meat last?

According to the USDA, frozen foods are safe to eat indefinitely. But just because something is ok to consume doesn’t mean it will still taste delicious after years in a deep freeze. Here’s how it works: Zero-degree temps (and below) inactivate any bacteria, yeasts or molds and prevent harmful microorganisms from growing. Frozen foods, however, will decrease in quality (think: taste, texture, color, etc.) over time, especially if they are loosely wrapped or frozen slowly. So while you won’t get sick from your months-old frozen steak, it might not make for the juiciest cut.

We put together guidelines based on recommendations from the FDA for how long to store all types of meat in the freezer. And when it comes time to thaw that prized piece, be sure to defrost meat safely for the healthiest — and tastiest — result.

*The graphic above illustrates our Chief Food Director's professional opinion on frozen meat quality over time, which may suggest shorter freezing time than the FDA's recommended time outlined below.

First, make sure that you're freezing meat — and all other foods — at a temperature of 0° Fahrenheit or lower. This is the temp that keeps food safe. It's fine to freeze meat in its original packaging, but if you're planning to keep it in your freezer for longer than two months the FDA recommends that you switch to heavy-duty packaging like foil, plastic wrap or freezer paper. You can seal protein inside an airtight plastic bag, too. Lock in freshness using one of our top-tested, best vacuum sealers.

Whole chickens and turkeys can last up to a year in the freezer. Turkey or chicken breasts, thighs, or wings should be consumed within nine months, while giblets should be kept no longer than three to four months.

Raw steaks can be kept in the freezer for six to 12 months. Chops last four to six months while roasts can be frozen for up to a year.

Uncooked pork has similar freezer guidelines to beef: Chops last four to six months in the freezer, while roasts can be frozen for up to a year. Processed pork, such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs, ham, and lunch meats, should not be kept in the freezer for longer than one to two months.

Lean fish can last six to eight months in the freezer while fatty fish only lasts two to three months.

Not sure if your fish is lean or fatty? Common lean fish include bass, cod, tuna and tilapia, while fatty fish include mackerel, salmon and sardines.

Other fresh seafood such as shrimp, scallops, crawfish, and squid should last three to six months in the freezer.

Ground beef, turkey, lamb, or veal will preserve their quality in the freezer for three to four months. (The same goes for hamburger meat!)

Looking to save that leftover turkey? Cooked meat doesn't maintain its quality in the freezer for as long as raw meat does: Cooked poultry and fish can be kept in the freezer for four to six months, while beef, veal, lamb and pork shouldn't be kept for longer than two to three months.

Samantha MacAvoy is the Editorial Assistant on the Good Housekeeping food team, where she writes about tasty recipes from the Test Kitchen, must-try food products and tools, and top-tested secrets for home cooking success. She graduated Fordham University with a degree in Art History and Italian, a passion for writing, and an inescapable curiosity for food and flavor. She can usually be found in the kitchen, chopping onions while listening to a podcast. 

How to Easily Soften Brown Sugar

How to Make a Latte Like a Pro

Here's How to Freeze Green Beans

How to Defrost Meat Safely and Quickly

How to Make Rice in a Rice Cooker

Yep, You Can Sub Chips for Breadcrumbs

No Vegetable Oil on Hand? Try These Alternatives

How to Defrost Chicken Safely

How Long Does Canned Food Last?

How to Make Espresso Like a Pro

Our Grilling Guide Will Turn You Into a Pro

How to Cook Steak in the Oven

A Part of Hearst Digital Media

Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

©Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.