Meat

Buying fresh meat can sometimes feel confusing, from choosing the right cut to ensuring it’s genuinely fresh and halal-certified. In the UAE, where food quality and hygiene standards are high, understanding what to look for in your meat can make a big difference to the flavour, texture, and safety of your meals. At Tradus, we understand how important quality meat is for every kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or ordering bulk for a restaurant, this ultimate guide will help you choose confidently, store safely, and enjoy premium meat every time. Why Fresh Meat Matters Fresh meat delivers authentic taste, tenderness, and better nutrition. When handled properly, it’s free from excess preservatives, retains natural moisture, and cooks evenly. In the UAE’s warm climate, freshness depends greatly on maintaining a proper cold chain — from sourcing to packaging to doorstep delivery. Choosing a trusted supplier ensures your meat stays at the right temperature throughout its journey. It’s not just about flavour — it’s about food safety and your family’s health. What to Look for When Buying Fresh Meat 1. Check Colour and Texture Colour is your first indicator of freshness. Beef should have a bright cherry-red tone. Mutton should appear pinkish-red, with creamy white fat. Chicken should be pale pink with a smooth, slightly moist surface. Texture matters too. Gently press the meat — it should spring back instead of leaving a dent. Avoid meat that looks greyish, slimy, or gives off an unpleasant smell. 2. Inspect the Packaging Always check the label for: Date of packing and use-by date Storage instructions (chilled or frozen) Halal certification Quality suppliers use vacuum sealing or leak-proof trays to maintain hygiene. Avoid packs with excessive liquid, which can indicate poor storage or thawing. 3. Verify the Source Ask where your meat comes from. Premium butchers and online suppliers clearly mention origin. For example, Pakistani beef is known for its strong flavour and tenderness, making it ideal for curries, BBQs, and steaks. Trusted suppliers like Tradus maintain transparency about sourcing, processing, and hygiene standards. Choosing the Right Type and Cut Each type of meat offers unique flavour, nutrition, and versatility. Beef When selecting Pakistani beef, opt for tenderloin or ribeye for grilling and quick cooking. Chuck or brisket are better for slow-cooked recipes, delivering deep, rich taste. Mutton If you prefer fresh mutton, choose the shoulder or leg for slow-cooked dishes, or ribs and chops for grilling. Mutton offers bolder flavour and firm texture, perfect for Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. Chicken Quality fresh chicken should be plump, firm, and pink. Choose whole chicken for roasts, boneless breast for lean meals, or thighs and wings for juicier results. Ensure the chicken is halal-certified and handled in a temperature-controlled facility. Value vs Premium Cuts Premium cuts are convenient and tender but cost more. For value, try secondary cuts like flank or neck — they’re affordable, flavourful, and ideal for stews and slow-cooked dishes. Storage and Handling Tips Proper storage keeps your meat safe and tasty. Refrigeration Keep raw meat on the bottom shelf of your fridge at 5°C or below to prevent cross-contamination. Chicken: cook within 1-2 days. Beef or mutton: cook within 3-4 days. Freezing Freeze immediately if you don’t plan to cook soon. Use airtight freezer bags or vacuum sealing. Label with date and type. For best quality, use frozen meat within 2-3 months. Thawing Defrost meat in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Slow thawing keeps bacteria at bay and preserves texture. Never refreeze thawed raw meat unless it’s cooked first. Buying Safely and Ethically in the UAE Halal Assurance In [...]