A few months ago, news about the seriousness of coronavirus started spreading across the globe. This novel virus–whose real cause is yet to be determined–has been the main subject in both local and international media. Perhaps, two of the most common phrases at the moment are “social distancing” and “self-quarantine”.
In fear of being quarantined in their homes, people started stocking up all they can, from essentials, like tissue papers and sanitizers, to non-perishable food. Well, you probably have a lot of meat preserved in your fridge now. Well, that’s understandable given the circumstances. But, do you know how to properly manage them?
Ways To Manage Meat Stocks During The COVID-19 Pandemic
Most health and government agencies recommend buying food that can sustain you for two weeks. Trying new recipes may also help in maintaining your food stock. Meat, however, may not last that long if you don’t manage them carefully.
(Note that this article is not encouraging panic buying; it’s all about preparation for a possible quarantine or managing it if you are already in one.)
Here are the things you can do to navigate the said problem.
- Store them at a temperature below 0o
Many butcheries are reporting a boom in business due to a lot of uncertainty among the buyers. Melbourne butchers, for instance, have been earning almost twice their regular sales per day. However, as you buy that meat, there is a chance that you won’t cook it immediately. So, what should you do? Make sure your freezer is anywhere below 0o as this is the perfect temperature for preserving meat.
Meat attracts a lot of bacteria when kept at a temperature that favours the microorganisms. Eating such meat may be dangerous to your health, and this is the worst time to get sick. Don’t get it wrong–there is no better time for sickness than the other.
- Know how long you can preserve the meat
Fresh meat is the best as it is more nutritious and even tastier. The longer you keep it, however, the more it loses its nutrients. One way to get past this pandemic is by staying healthy and maintaining strong immunity. Eating a piece of meat that has overstayed in your fridge will not help in that regard.
Poultry meat can last up to a year in the freezer. Beef, lamb, and veal, on the other hand, may last for between four and 12 months. However, if the meat is chopped, it shouldn’t go past four months. But, if you want a healthier meal, then, you should consume it a lot earlier than that.
- Do not stock more than you need
As earlier stated, you are encouraged to prepare for this pandemic wisely rather than with a panicked heart. So, do not buy just for the sake of filling your refrigerator. If you purchase several pieces of meat, you might end up throwing them away after some time. Well, that’s not prudent, is it? Especially that many families are struggling to put food on their tables.
Having said that, you only ought to buy what you can handle for a few weeks. After the said time period, you can go back and buy more from your favourite butchery. Of course, meat supply could be affected soon, but the government has always promised to ensure that everyone continues to have access to such services.
- Plan your meals
Maybe, you’ve always found this as a weird strategy, but now is the time to use it. As you stay at home, you might find yourself eating a two-week stock within a few days. If you don’t trust your discipline around food, you can plan for your future meals beforehand.
For instance, making a weekly timetable will ensure that you don’t repeat the same menu over and over again. Of course, you’ll also be building a healthier body by changing your daily diet. Hey, and do not throw away the leftovers unless they are contaminated or can’t be eaten anymore.
The Australian meat industry has vowed to meet the demands of all Australians during this pandemic. As such, you’ll still be able to get it from your local meat suppliers. Online suppliers will also continue to service your needs, so no need to worry.
Conclusion
Nobody knows how long this pandemic will last, but you shouldn’t panic either. Buy enough to feed your family for a few weeks, then, order for more once your stock is out. After all, the shelves at your local supermarkets will be full once the current situation is over.
