Is pork unsafe if frozen for a long period of time?

Answer 1

According to the USDA, properly frozen meats remain safe indefinitely. However, the quality of the meat may degrade the longer it is frozen. They recommend these storage times, in number of months, at 0 degrees Fahrenheit:

Ham, Hotdogs and Lunchmeats1 to 2 months

Meat, uncooked roasts4 to 12Meat, uncooked steaks or chops4 to 12Meat, uncooked ground3 to 4Meat, cooked2 to 3

You may also determine quality after thawing. The USDA recommends:

First check the odor. Some foods will develop a rancid or off odor when frozen too long and should be discarded. Some may not look picture perfect or be of high enough quality to serve alone but may be edible; use them to make soups or stews.

Source: Freezing and Food Safety, USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Fact Sheet (see the Related Links list associated with this question to go to the web page).

Answer 2

If the pork has been fully frozen, without thawing, it will remain safe to eat even over long periods of time. But if you have doubts about it, you can see if there is any peculiar odor. When meat goes bad, it smells.

Answer 3

Yes as long as you cook it properly - it is likely to be quite tough.

Answer 4

Microbiologically speaking, it would be OK - but it is probably rancid by now.

Answer 5

I would only eat cooked frozen pork after 2- 3 months. Not 6 .

Answer 6

The internal temperature of pork should be 160 degrees before it is considered safe to eat.