USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperStorage conditions, whether it is properly cooked, and exposure to contamination change the answer — and those details are easy to miss.
Get a yes / no answer for your lamb heart →
Last reviewed: January 2026
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team using official USDA, FDA, and CDC food safety guidance. How we assess food safety risk
Discard it after the expiration date.
⚠️ Undercooked or spoiled meat and poultry are leading causes of serious foodborne illness.


Fridge
32°F (0°C)
Store in airtight container on a plate in the coldest part of the fridge
Proper cooking temperatures are critical for food safety. An instant-read food thermometer (Amazon) helps ensure meat reaches safe internal temperatures and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
2 days
90 days
Unpleasant odor, slimy texture, discoloration
Vacuum sealing before freezing can help reduce freezer burn and extend storage time. A vacuum sealer (Amazon) helps maintain food quality during longer freezer storage.
Grilled skewers, minced in pasta sauce
Beef heart, chicken heart
The expiration date on raw lamb heart indicates the point after which the meat may no longer be safe to consume due to potential bacterial growth. It is important to follow the expiration date for food safety reasons. On the other hand, the best quality of lamb heart is typically within 1-2 days of purchase when stored properly in the refrigerator. While the meat may still be safe to eat after this time, it may start to lose its freshness and flavor.
To determine if Lamb Heart Fresh Raw has spoiled, look for a slimy or sticky texture, a sour or putrid smell, and a discoloration that is grey or brown rather than a vibrant red color. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the lamb heart to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
When handling and storing lamb heart, it is important to follow proper food safety practices to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Cross-contamination is a key concern when working with raw meats, so it is crucial to keep the lamb heart separate from other foods and to clean all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with the meat thoroughly. Cooking the lamb heart to the recommended internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) will help kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.
To store lamb heart properly, it is recommended to keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, such as the meat drawer, where the temperature is consistently below 40°F (4°C). If you do not plan to use the lamb heart within a day or two, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When thawing frozen lamb heart, do so in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and safety.
Lamb heart is a delicacy in many cultures around the world. In some countries, like Scotland, lamb heart is a traditional ingredient in dishes like haggis, a savory pudding made with sheep's heart, liver, and lungs. In other cultures, lamb heart is considered a nutrient-dense food rich in iron, zinc, and essential vitamins. Some people enjoy the unique texture and flavor of lamb heart, finding it to be a tasty alternative to more commonly consumed cuts of meat.
Once Lamb Heart Fresh Raw is cooked, it can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. After this period, the quality may degrade, and it is recommended to consume it within 1 day of the expiry date for optimal safety.
Yes, Lamb Heart Fresh Raw can be frozen to extend its shelf life. Ensure it is tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge to maintain its quality.
The type of container can impact the shelf life of Lamb Heart Fresh Raw. It is best to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags to maintain freshness and prevent cross-contamination with other foods in the fridge.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications. Our food safety review methodology explains how safety determinations are made.
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Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.
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