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How to Store Pet Food and Keep Its Label Information

Keep dry food in its original bag, follow the product's storage instructions and preserve its identity. A tidy container should not separate the food from the information needed for a manufacturer question or recall check.

NutriPet Editorial TeamUpdated

Set up the storage space

FDA recommends a cool, dry place for dry food, a tightly closed original bag and secure storage that prevents pets reaching the whole supply.

  1. Follow the exact product's instructions and keep its bag closed. If you use an outer container, keep the original bag and identifying information with the food.
  2. FDA advises temperatures below 80°F for dry food and refrigeration at 40°F or below for covered canned or pouched leftovers. These are approximately 27°C and 4°C.
  3. Promptly refrigerate or discard unused wet food. Check the pack for product-specific instructions rather than inventing one storage duration for every food.

Make a pack record before it becomes hard to read

Our suggested record has five fields: formula; date opened; batch or lot code; date marking; storage instructions.

  1. Photograph the full product name and the panel containing the lot or batch code and date marking.
  2. Keep the ingredient list and intended species readable. Label separate foods clearly in a multi-pet household.
  3. Keep each batch identifiable when replacing a bag. Mixing leftovers and new food can make later tracing harder.

Keep handling separate from ingredient analysis

An ingredient list cannot tell you how this opened package has been handled. FDA's hygiene guidance applies even when a food looks familiar.

  • Wash hands before and after handling food. Clean bowls and measuring utensils after use, and use a separate clean scoop.
  • Do not buy visibly damaged packages or continue using spoiled food. Seek appropriate advice about an affected pet.
  • For a recall, follow the official notice and match the product and batch details it lists. A missing alert or a favorable app grade does not establish safety.

FAQ

Can a storage container replace the original label?

It can hold the bag, but keep the original identifying information with the food. A name written on a lid usually omits batch and label details.

How many days can every opened wet food be kept?

There is no single duration in this guide. Follow the exact product's instructions, refrigerate promptly and seek manufacturer guidance when the instructions are unclear.

Sources

NutriPet editorial reviewEvidence library

  1. Tips for Safe Handling of Pet Food and TreatsU.S. Food and Drug Administration
  2. Outbreaks and AdvisoriesU.S. Food and Drug Administration
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