How many pounds of meat will my freezer hold?
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Rule of Thumb for Freezer Storage
A good general rule is:
1 cubic foot of freezer space holds approximately 35–40 pounds of packaged meat.
This simple calculation makes it easy to plan ahead based on the size of your freezer and the type of meat you want to store.
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Refrigerator Freezer Example
 
Take a standard 27.8 cu ft. refrigerator with a freezer capacity of about 9 cubic feet.
• That’s enough space for roughly 270 pounds of frozen meat.
• This can include:
• 1/4 cow
• 1 whole lamb
• 1/4 pig
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For those who prefer variety, this freezer size is perfect for a mix of pasture-raised pork, grass-fed lamb, and smaller items like grass-finished rabbit or poultry.
Top Freezer Refrigerator Example
 
A classic 18 cu ft. top-freezer refrigerator typically offers about 4 cubic feet of freezer space.
• That’s enough for approximately 140 pounds of frozen food.
• It can store:
• 1/4 cow
• 1/2 lamb
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Even smaller freezers can hold more meat than you might expect when packed efficiently.
Find the Perfect Freezer for Your Meat Storage
Whether you’re investing in a chest freezer or using the space you already have, understanding freezer capacity makes it easier to plan for large quantities of meat. By applying the 1 cubic foot = 35–40 pounds rule, you’ll be well on your way to storing your favorite cuts of Sugar Hill Farmstead beef, pasture-raised pork, and grass-fed lamb with ease.
How Much Meat Can Your Freezer Hold? A Handy Guide for Meat Storage
Planning to stock up on a large quantity of meat? Whether it’s pasture-raised pork, grass-fed lamb, or even grass-finished rabbit, figuring out how much meat your freezer can hold is essential. Many people worry they won’t have enough space, but with the right planning and a clear understanding of freezer capacity, you can make it work.
If you’re considering a chest freezer, standing freezer, or making do with your refrigerator freezer, this guide will help you determine the ideal storage capacity for your needs.