How to store fresh and frozen pet food

As pet owners become increasingly conscious of their pets’ nutrition, there’s been a noticeable shift from traditional canned or bagged pet food to fresh or frozen alternatives.

Fresh food offers numerous benefits for our furry friends, including improved digestion, stronger immune systems, increased energy levels and better overall health and happiness.

However, to fully reap these advantages, proper fresh and frozen pet food storage is crucial.

This blog aims to provide valuable insights into the storage requirements for fresh and frozen pet food, helping pet owners and retailers alike ensure the safety and freshness of these products.

We’ll explore the benefits of fresh pet food and discuss the specific storage guidelines for fresh and frozen varieties.

By understanding the importance of proper storage techniques, retailers can contribute to maintaining the nutritional integrity of the pet food they sell.

So, let’s delve into the world of fresh and frozen pet food storage and how reliable refrigeration can help you capitalise on the growing demand in this lucrative market segment.

The benefits of fresh pet food

Fresh pet food offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive choice for pet owners seeking to provide the best nutrition for their furry companions.

Here are some of the selling points to focus on when promoting your fresh or frozen pet food products to customers:

Healthier and more natural ingredients

Fresh pet food is often made with high-quality, minimally processed whole food ingredients.

Unlike traditional canned or bagged pet food which may contain fillers, additives, and preservatives, fresh pet food focuses on wholesome ingredients that promote overall health and wellbeing in pets. By opting for fresh pet food, owners have better control over the ingredients their pets consume, ensuring they receive a diet rich in nutrients and free from unnecessary additives. As a retailer, offering this option can help supercharge your sales.

Improved digestion and nutrient absorption

The high-quality ingredients found in fresh pet food are often easier for pets to digest compared to heavily processed alternatives. The absence of artificial additives and fillers can contribute to reduced digestive issues and sensitivities in pets. Additionally, the higher moisture content in some fresh pet foods can aid in digestion and support optimal hydration, especially for pets prone to urinary tract issues or requiring increased water intake.

Increased energy and vitality in pets

Fresh pet food provides pets with essential nutrients in their most natural form, which can lead to increased energy levels and overall vitality. The balanced combination of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals in fresh pet food supports optimal body function and can contribute to improved muscle tone, healthy skin and coat, and enhanced overall wellbeing.

Enhanced flavour and variety

Fresh pet food often comes in a wide range of flavours and formulations, allowing pet owners to provide their furry friends with a diverse and exciting menu. This variety can help prevent pets from becoming bored with their meals and encourage a healthy appetite. By offering different flavours and textures, fresh pet food can make mealtime enjoyable for pets and provide them with a satisfying eating experience.

By offering fresh pet food to your customers, you can help them ensure their beloved companions receive the best possible nutrition, leading to a healthier and happier life.

However, knowing how to store fresh and frozen pet food to ensure its appealing to pet owners and their furry friends is essential. Here are a few top tips…

Storing fresh pet food

To maintain the freshness and quality of fresh pet food, proper storage is crucial. Consider the following factors:

Proper refrigeration temperature and conditions

Fresh pet food should be stored in a commercial storage or display refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C). This helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and preserves the nutritional integrity of the food. Ensure the refrigerator is set at an appropriate temperature and regularly monitor it to maintain consistent cooling.

Packaging considerations for freshness and hygiene

Fresh pet food should be stored in airtight containers or packaging designed specifically for food storage. This helps prevent contamination and extends the shelf life of the food. Look for packaging options that are durable, leak-proof, and BPA-free to ensure the safety and freshness of the food.

Rotation and labelling for optimal freshness

Practice a first-in, first-out approach when storing fresh pet food. This means using older batches of food before newer ones to prevent spoilage. Labelling the containers with the purchase or expiration date can help track freshness and ensure the food is consumed within the recommended timeframe.

Frozen pet food also requires proper storage to maintain its quality and safety. Consider the following guidelines:

Maintaining consistent freezing temperatures

Frozen pet food should be stored at temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacterial growth and maintain nutritional value. Ensure your commercial storage freezer is set at the appropriate temperature and avoid frequent temperature fluctuations by minimising door opening frequency.

Suitable containers and packaging

Use freezer-safe containers or packaging specifically designed for storing frozen food. Use airtight, moisture-resistant containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the food. Consider dividing the food into portion-sized packages to facilitate convenient serving.

Thawing guidelines for safe consumption

Your customers should follow the food manufacturer’s recommended thawing guidelines. Thaw the food in the refrigerator or using safe thawing methods such as cold-water or microwave thawing, if specified. Avoid leaving the food at room temperature for an extended period to minimise the risk of bacterial growth.

By following proper storage practices for fresh and frozen pet food, you can ensure the longevity, safety and nutritional value of your products so your customers – and their furry friends – can reap the benefits.  

Understanding the demand for fresh pet food

As the demand for fresh pet food continues to rise, retailers can tap into this growing market and cater to the evolving needs of pet owners.

Stay informed about the current trends and preferences in the pet food industry.

Recognise the shift in consumer behaviour towards fresh and natural options for their pets.

Conduct market research and monitor customer feedback to understand their specific needs and preferences when it comes to fresh pet food.

Offer a diverse range of fresh pet food products to cater to different dietary requirements, preferences and budgets.

Consider partnering with reputable brands that specialise in producing high-quality fresh pet food. These can include options such as raw, cooked or freeze-dried pet food, as well as fresh meal kits or individual ingredients for pet owners who prefer to prepare homemade meals.

Provide educational materials and resources to help your customers understand the benefits of feeding their pets fresh food.

Highlight the superior nutritional value, improved digestion, enhanced energy levels and overall wellbeing that fresh pet food can provide.

Train your staff to be knowledgeable about the different products and their benefits, so they can effectively assist customers and answer any questions they may have.

Create eye-catching displays that showcase your range of fresh pet food products in the best light. Choosing the right commercial storage units and display fridges, and having them custom-branded, can help you achieve this.

Use clear signage and labels to communicate key information such as ingredients, nutritional value and recommended serving sizes. Additionally, offer samples or demonstrations to allow customers to experience the quality and appeal of the fresh pet food first-hand.

By recognising the demand for fresh pet food, offering a diverse selection, educating your customers and creating engaging displays, you can position your business as a trusted source for high-quality fresh pet food.

How can TEFCOLD help?

The increasing demand for fresh pet food presents significant opportunities for retailers to tap into a growing market segment.

As more pet owners recognise the importance of providing their pets with healthier and more natural food options, it’s essential for retailers to adapt to this trend.

By catering to the needs of pet owners, you can expand your customer base and increase your profitability.

Proper storage and handling of fresh and frozen pet food are crucial for maintaining its quality, safety and nutritional value. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure your pet food products meet the expectations of pet owners seeking fresh alternatives for their beloved companions.

We have an excellent range of different types of pet food refrigerators here at TEFCOLD, from commercial display units that are easily brandable to promote your products, to storage units that ensure your supplies never run low.

Whether you’re a small independent pet store taking its first steps into the fresh pet food market or a large store chain, we can help. If you require more advice or support to help you choose the best commercial unit for your store, call our friendly and experienced team today on 01332 850090.