🐾 How Long Can Freshpet Food Be Left Out? Let’s Keep It Fresh!

Published on: December 7, 2024Author: Bestie Paws

Freshpet food is a popular choice for pet owners looking to provide their dogs and cats with fresh, nutritious meals. But because it’s made from real, fresh ingredients, it doesn’t have the same shelf life as traditional kibble. So, how long can Freshpet food safely sit out before it spoils, and what’s the best way to store it to keep your furry friend’s meals safe and delicious? 🐶 Let’s dig into the details to ensure your pet gets the freshest and healthiest food possible! 🐾

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Freshpet Food Storage 🐕

How long can Freshpet food be left out? Ideally, no more than 2 hours at room temperature.
What happens if it sits out too long? Bacteria can grow, making it unsafe for your pet to eat.
Can I refrigerate leftovers? Yes, store uneaten food in the fridge, but discard it after 7 days.
What’s the best way to serve Freshpet food? Serve it cold or let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off.
Can I freeze Freshpet food? Yes, you can freeze portions to extend shelf life, but defrost in the fridge before serving.

How Long Can Freshpet Food Safely Be Left Out?

Freshpet food is made from real, wholesome ingredients like fresh meats, vegetables, and grains, which means it doesn’t have the preservatives found in traditional dry or canned pet food. As a result, it needs to be treated more like human-grade perishable food. The general rule of thumb is that Freshpet food should not be left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

Time Left Out	Food Safety	💡 Tip
0-2 hours	Safe to eat.	Freshpet is good for about 2 hours after being served.
2-4 hours	Risk increases.	Bacteria may begin to grow—refrigerate if not eaten within 2 hours.
4+ hours	Unsafe—throw it out!	By this point, bacterial growth is likely, and it’s no longer safe for your pet.

💡 Pro Tip: On hot days or in warm environments, aim to limit Freshpet food’s exposure to no more than 1 hour. The warmer the room, the faster bacteria can grow.

What Happens if Freshpet Food Sits Out Too Long?

Just like with any perishable food, if Freshpet food is left out for too long, harmful bacteria and microorganisms can start to grow. While your pet might still be tempted to eat it, this could lead to serious health problems, such as:

Foodborne Illness: Bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli can grow on pet food left out too long, especially in warm environments. These bacteria can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even more severe illness in both pets and humans.
Decreased Nutritional Value: As the food sits out, not only does it become unsafe, but it also begins to lose its nutritional value. Fresh ingredients are sensitive to heat and air exposure, leading to the degradation of vitamins and minerals.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re ever unsure about whether the food has been out too long, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it away. It’s always safer to offer fresh servings!

Can I Refrigerate Leftover Freshpet Food?

Yes! Freshpet food should be refrigerated immediately after each feeding if any is left over. Since it’s made from fresh ingredients, storing it properly in the fridge will help keep it safe for your pet’s next meal.

Storage Location	Shelf Life	💡 Tip
Refrigerator	Up to 7 days after opening	Store Freshpet in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezer	Up to 6 months when frozen	Freeze in small portions for easy thawing and feeding.

💡 Pro Tip: When storing leftovers, transfer the food to an airtight container to help preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

What’s the Best Way to Serve Freshpet Food?

Since Freshpet food is stored in the refrigerator, many pet owners wonder if it should be served cold or warmed up. Here’s what you need to know:

Cold from the Fridge: Freshpet can be served straight from the fridge. Some pets love the chilled texture and flavor, but others may prefer it slightly warmer.
Let It Sit for a Few Minutes: If your pet seems put off by the cold temperature, try letting the food sit out at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. This takes the chill off without risking spoilage.
Never Microwave: It’s not recommended to microwave Freshpet food, as it can cause hot spots that could burn your pet’s mouth or reduce the nutritional quality of the food.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet is a bit picky about cold food, try mixing in a spoonful of warm water or low-sodium broth to make it more appealing without heating it up directly.

Can I Freeze Freshpet Food to Extend Its Shelf Life?

Yes! If you’ve purchased Freshpet in bulk or want to extend its shelf life, freezing is a great option. Here’s how you can freeze and defrost Freshpet food effectively:

Freezing: Freshpet food can be frozen for up to 6 months. Divide the food into individual portions before freezing so you can thaw just what you need for each meal.
Defrosting: When you’re ready to serve, thaw the food in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw Freshpet food at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
Consistency After Thawing: After thawing, the texture may change slightly, but it’s still safe and nutritious for your pet.

💡 Pro Tip: Label the containers with the freezing date to keep track of how long the food has been stored.

📊 Freshpet Food Storage at a Glance

Condition	How Long It Lasts	💡 Tip
At room temperature	2 hours max	Always refrigerate any uneaten portions within 2 hours.
In the refrigerator	Up to 7 days after opening	Use airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent spoilage.
In the freezer	Up to 6 months	Freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge before serving.

🗝️ Key Takeaways for Freshpet Food Safety

Freshpet food should not be left out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.
Refrigerate any leftovers immediately after feeding, and use them within 7 days.
Freeze Freshpet food in portions to extend its shelf life, but thaw it in the fridge before feeding.
Always serve Freshpet food cold or let it sit for a few minutes—avoid microwaving to maintain its nutritional quality.
If you’re unsure whether Freshpet has been left out too long, discard it to keep your pet safe.

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With proper handling and storage, Freshpet can be a healthy, fresh addition to your pet’s diet! 🐾💖

Comment 1: “What should I do if I accidentally left Freshpet food out overnight?”

If Freshpet food has been left out overnight, it’s no longer safe to serve to your pet. Freshpet is made from fresh, natural ingredients that spoil quickly when left at room temperature, especially over long periods. Here’s why:

Bacterial Growth: After about 2 hours at room temperature, harmful bacteria can begin to grow on the food. When left out overnight (anywhere from 8-12 hours), the risk of contamination by bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria increases dramatically. These bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal issues for your pet, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Loss of Nutritional Value: Beyond safety concerns, food that sits out too long also loses its nutritional quality. Fresh ingredients are sensitive to heat and air exposure, so vitamins and minerals can break down, making the food less beneficial to your pet.

💡 Pro Tip: Always discard Freshpet food that has been left out for more than 2 hours to avoid any risk of illness. Stick to the “better safe than sorry” rule when it comes to your pet’s food safety.

Comment 2: “Can I mix Freshpet with dry food to keep it fresh longer?”

While mixing Freshpet with dry food won’t extend its shelf life once it’s served, it’s a good option if you’re looking to provide balanced nutrition while also managing portion control. Here’s what you need to know:

Storage Still Matters: Even if you mix Freshpet with dry food, the Freshpet portion will still need to follow the 2-hour rule at room temperature. The dry food doesn’t change the perishable nature of the fresh ingredients, so any leftovers should be refrigerated immediately after your pet is done eating.
Balanced Nutrition: Combining Freshpet with dry kibble can offer a well-rounded meal, providing the benefits of fresh ingredients like real meats and vegetables alongside the long-lasting nutrients in kibble. Many pet owners find that this approach helps with picky eaters or transitions pets to a more natural diet while maintaining the convenience of dry food.
Adjusting Portions: If you’re mixing Freshpet with dry food, make sure you adjust the portions to avoid overfeeding. Use the Freshpet feeding guidelines based on your pet’s weight, then reduce the dry food amount to prevent excess calories.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re mixing Freshpet with dry kibble, offer the dry portion first, then add Freshpet just before serving. This minimizes the time the Freshpet is exposed to room temperature and helps keep it as fresh as possible.

Comment 3: “Is it safe to warm up Freshpet food before feeding?”

Warming up Freshpet food is not recommended, as it can affect the nutritional integrity of the food and create hot spots that may burn your pet’s mouth. Here’s why:

Nutritional Degradation: Freshpet food contains delicate nutrients like vitamins and minerals that are heat-sensitive. Microwaving or heating the food can break down these nutrients, reducing the overall quality of the meal.
Hot Spots: If you microwave the food, it may heat unevenly, causing hot spots that could burn your pet’s tongue or mouth. This is especially concerning if your pet tends to gobble up their food quickly without checking the temperature.
Best Practice: If your pet prefers food that’s not as cold, the best approach is to let the Freshpet sit out for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will take the chill off the food without compromising its quality or safety.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is particularly sensitive to cold food, try adding a small amount of warm water or low-sodium broth to the Freshpet just before serving. This gently warms the food without overheating it.

Comment 4: “How do I know if Freshpet has gone bad in the fridge?”

While Freshpet is formulated to stay fresh in the fridge for up to 7 days after opening, there are a few clear signs that the food has gone bad. Here’s what to watch for:

Foul Smell: Freshpet food should have a clean, fresh scent, similar to real meats and vegetables. If you notice a sour or rancid odor, this is a clear indicator that the food has spoiled and should be thrown out.
Change in Texture: Spoiled Freshpet may become slimy or mushy, especially if it has been left uncovered or improperly stored. This texture change often accompanies bacterial growth, which makes the food unsafe to eat.
Mold or Discoloration: Any visible signs of mold or unusual discoloration (like gray or green spots) are a surefire indication that the food has gone bad. Even if the mold is in one spot, it’s safest to discard the entire package to avoid the risk of contamination.
Excessive Moisture: If the food appears overly wet or has an unusual amount of liquid pooling in the container, this can indicate spoilage. While some moisture is normal, too much can signal that bacteria have started breaking down the food.

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💡 Pro Tip: Always store Freshpet in an airtight container and place it on a fridge shelf (not in the door) to maintain a consistent, cold temperature. If you’re ever in doubt about its freshness, it’s best to throw it out and serve a fresh batch.

Comment 5: “Can Freshpet be used for both dogs and cats?”

Yes! Freshpet offers food formulas specifically designed for both dogs and cats. However, it’s important to choose the right type for your pet, as the nutritional needs of dogs and cats are different. Here’s what you should know:

Dog vs. Cat Nutrition: Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet that is high in animal proteins and certain nutrients like taurine that aren’t as necessary for dogs. Freshpet cat formulas are specially designed to meet these needs, while dog formulas are more balanced for a dog’s omnivorous diet.
Feeding Cats Dog Food: While dogs can sometimes share cat food in small amounts (since it’s higher in protein), it’s not recommended to feed cat food to dogs or vice versa as a regular meal. Cats need more protein and specific nutrients that aren’t present in dog formulas, while dogs could gain unnecessary weight or develop nutrient imbalances if fed cat food.
Freshpet Options: Freshpet offers several lines of fresh food for both dogs and cats, such as Freshpet Vital and Freshpet Select, which come in different protein varieties to suit your pet’s preferences.

💡 Pro Tip: Make sure to read the packaging carefully to ensure you’re choosing the correct formula for your pet. While both options provide fresh, whole-food nutrition, they’re tailored to the unique dietary needs of dogs and cats.

Comment 6: “Can Freshpet help with my pet’s allergies?”

Freshpet’s fresh, whole-food ingredients may be beneficial for pets with food sensitivities or allergies, particularly if your pet has had issues with preservatives or filler ingredients found in traditional kibble or canned foods. Here’s why:

Limited Ingredients: Freshpet formulas are made from natural, simple ingredients like real meats, vegetables, and grains, and often feature limited ingredient options. This can help minimize exposure to common allergens such as corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives.
Fresh Protein Sources: Many pets develop allergies to lower-quality proteins or processed meats found in some commercial pet foods. Freshpet uses high-quality, whole protein sources like chicken, turkey, or beef, which may reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.
Balanced Omega-3s: Some Freshpet recipes include omega-3 fatty acids from ingredients like fish oil, which are known to reduce inflammation and improve skin health, potentially alleviating symptoms of food-related skin allergies.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet has known food allergies, consult your vet about switching to a limited-ingredient or novel protein Freshpet formula, such as those with salmon or lamb, to see if their symptoms improve.

Comment 7: “How do I introduce Freshpet food to my pet’s diet?”

Switching your pet to Freshpet food should be done gradually to avoid any digestive upset. Here’s how to make the transition smoothly:

Start Slow: Begin by mixing 25% Freshpet with your pet’s current food. Continue this ratio for the first 2-3 days.
Increase Gradually: Over the next week, slowly increase the Freshpet portion to 50%, then 75%, until you are feeding 100% Freshpet after about 7-10 days.
Monitor for Changes: During the transition, keep an eye on your pet’s stool consistency and overall behavior. Some pets may experience mild digestive changes, such as softer stools, as their system adjusts to the new food.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet has a sensitive stomach, stretch the transition over 2 weeks, introducing the new food even more gradually to ensure a smooth digestive process.

Comment 8: “Can I feed Freshpet to my puppy or kitten?”

Absolutely! Freshpet offers specially formulated recipes designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies and kittens. Feeding young pets a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet is crucial for their development, and Freshpet’s fresh ingredients can support that growth effectively. Here’s what makes it a great option:

High-Quality Proteins: Puppies and kittens need more protein than adult pets to support their growing muscles, bones, and organs. Freshpet uses real, high-quality meats like chicken, turkey, and beef to provide the necessary protein for optimal growth.
Essential Nutrients: Freshpet formulas for puppies and kittens are enriched with essential nutrients such as calcium for bone development and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) for brain and vision development. These ingredients are especially important for young pets in their first year of life.
Gentle on Digestion: Freshpet’s natural ingredients, without artificial preservatives or fillers, are gentle on the developing digestive systems of puppies and kittens, reducing the risk of stomach upset or food allergies.

💡 Pro Tip: When transitioning your puppy or kitten to Freshpet, follow the same gradual introduction method used for adult pets—start by mixing it with their current food and slowly increase the Freshpet portion over 7-10 days. This helps avoid any digestive upset during the switch.

Comment 9: “Does Freshpet help with weight management for overweight pets?”

Yes, Freshpet can be an excellent option for weight management in pets due to its high-quality ingredients and absence of unnecessary fillers. Here’s how Freshpet can aid in weight control:

Whole Ingredients: Freshpet uses natural ingredients like real meats, vegetables, and grains, which provide balanced nutrition without adding empty calories. This helps your pet feel full and satisfied while consuming fewer calories.
High Protein, Low Carbohydrate: Many Freshpet recipes are rich in lean proteins and low in carbohydrates, which is essential for building lean muscle mass and maintaining a healthy metabolism. Pets with higher protein diets tend to maintain a healthier weight, as proteins also promote a feeling of satiety.
No Fillers or Additives: Freshpet doesn’t contain corn, soy, or wheat, which are common fillers in many pet foods and can contribute to weight gain. By avoiding these ingredients, you’re ensuring your pet isn’t consuming unnecessary or unhealthy calories.
Portion Control: Freshpet offers easy-to-follow portion guidelines based on your pet’s weight and activity level, allowing you to monitor their caloric intake more precisely. For overweight pets, you can use these guidelines to help reduce calorie intake while still providing a nutrient-dense meal.

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💡 Pro Tip: Incorporate daily exercise and consider using a measuring cup to ensure portion accuracy. Monitoring weight loss over time with regular vet check-ups will help you stay on track with your pet’s weight management plan.

Comment 10: “Can I give Freshpet food to my senior dog or cat?”

Yes, Freshpet is a great choice for senior pets, offering a balance of nutrients to support their changing needs as they age. Older pets often require more digestible proteins, joint-supporting ingredients, and lower-calorie options to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being. Here’s how Freshpet helps:

Easily Digestible Proteins: Senior pets may have slower digestion, making highly digestible proteins important. Freshpet’s real meat proteins are easier for older dogs and cats to break down and absorb, helping maintain muscle mass without straining their digestive system.
Joint Support: Some Freshpet recipes include omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine, which can help support joint health and reduce inflammation—common concerns for aging pets with arthritis or mobility issues.
Lower Calorie Options: Senior pets tend to have slower metabolisms, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to avoiding conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease. Freshpet offers lower-calorie formulas to help senior pets maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing nutrition.
Hydration Benefits: Many senior pets benefit from moist food, as they may not drink as much water as they should. Freshpet’s soft texture and moisture-rich content can help ensure your senior dog or cat stays properly hydrated.

💡 Pro Tip: Consult with your vet about specific dietary needs based on your senior pet’s health conditions. For pets with kidney issues, for example, a low-phosphorus diet may be needed, and Freshpet offers options to meet those needs.

Comment 11: “How does Freshpet compare to raw food diets?”

Freshpet and raw food diets share the idea of offering whole, minimally processed ingredients to your pet, but they differ in key areas like safety, preparation, and nutritional completeness. Here’s how they compare:

Safety and Handling: One of the biggest concerns with raw diets is the risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can pose health risks to both pets and their owners. Freshpet, on the other hand, is gently cooked to kill harmful bacteria while maintaining the integrity of the fresh ingredients, providing a safer alternative to raw diets.
Nutritional Balance: Freshpet’s recipes are nutritionally balanced, meeting the AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Raw diets can sometimes lack this balance unless meticulously planned and supplemented, which could lead to deficiencies or imbalances over time.
Convenience: Raw diets require a significant amount of preparation, from sourcing high-quality raw ingredients to ensuring proper storage to prevent spoilage. Freshpet offers the convenience of pre-prepared, fresh meals without the hassle of thawing, preparing, or handling raw meats.
Digestibility: Freshpet’s gently cooked meals are easier for many pets to digest compared to raw diets. For pets with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, cooked food can be more soothing on the digestive system.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re considering switching from a raw diet to Freshpet, make the transition gradual to allow your pet’s digestive system to adjust. Monitor how they respond to the change, particularly in terms of digestion and energy levels.

Comment 12: “Can Freshpet help with food sensitivities or intolerances?”

Yes, Freshpet can be beneficial for pets with food sensitivities or intolerances due to its limited ingredient formulas and absence of common allergens. Here’s why it’s a good option:

Single Protein Sources: Freshpet offers recipes that feature single protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or beef. This makes it easier to pinpoint and avoid proteins that may trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities in your pet.
Grain-Free Options: Many pets have sensitivities to grains like wheat or corn. Freshpet provides grain-free formulas for both dogs and cats, using alternative carbohydrates like potatoes or peas, which can be gentler on the digestive system.
No Artificial Additives: Freshpet is free from artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, which are often the culprits behind food intolerances. By eliminating these unnecessary additives, Freshpet reduces the chances of triggering food sensitivities.
Simple, Whole Ingredients: Freshpet’s simple ingredient lists allow you to easily identify potential triggers and make informed decisions about your pet’s diet. This transparency helps when addressing food intolerances by offering a clear view of what your pet is consuming.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet has a known allergy or sensitivity, consult with your vet before switching to Freshpet. They can help you select the most appropriate formula and monitor your pet’s response to the new diet.

Comment 13: “How can I store Freshpet food to keep it fresh for longer?”

Storing Freshpet food properly is essential to maintaining its freshness and nutritional quality. Here’s how you can store it effectively:

Refrigeration: Once opened, Freshpet food should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 7 days. Keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent spoilage.
Freezing: You can freeze Freshpet food to extend its shelf life up to 6 months. When freezing, divide the food into portion-sized amounts so you can thaw only what you need. Thaw in the refrigerator and never at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Just like handling raw meats, ensure that any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with Freshpet are cleaned thoroughly to avoid contamination. Store Freshpet separately from other pet foods or human foods in the fridge to maintain cleanliness.

💡 Pro Tip: Write the date of opening on the package or container to keep track of how long it has been stored. This helps ensure you’re feeding your pet fresh food every time.