Proper meat storage is crucial for food safety and compliance with Dubai Municipality
regulations. Meat chillers must be arranged in a way that maintains hygiene, prevents
contamination, and ensures optimal preservation. Whether you operate a supermarket, butcher
shop, or restaurant, following these guidelines will help you meet food safety standards in
Dubai.
Dubai Municipality Guidelines for Meat Chillers
1. Maintain the Correct Temperature
- Fresh Meat: Store between 0°C to 4°C.
- Frozen Meat: Store at -18°C or below.
- Processed Meat: Maintain temperatures as specified by the manufacturer.
2. Organize Meat by Type and Storage Level
The Dubai Food Code requires proper segregation to prevent cross-contamination:
- Raw red meat (beef, lamb, mutton) should be placed on the lowest shelf.
- Raw poultry (chicken, turkey) must be stored separately, preferably in sealed containers.
- Seafood should be placed on a dedicated shelf, away from raw meat.
- Cooked or ready-to-eat meat must be stored on the top shelf to avoid contamination from raw juices.
3. Use Proper Storage Containers
- Use food-grade, non-porous containers to store meat.
- Label all containers with the type of meat, storage date, and expiration date.
- Avoid using open trays that allow juices to drip and contaminate other items.
4. Maintain Hygiene and Cleanliness
- Clean and disinfect the chiller daily using Dubai Municipality-approved sanitizers.
- Remove expired meat immediately to prevent spoilage.
- Ensure proper air circulation to maintain consistent temperatures.
5. Avoid Overloading the Chiller
- Keep sufficient space between meat items to allow cold air to circulate.
- Do not store non-meat items (such as vegetables) in the meat chiller.
6. Monitor and Record Temperature Readings
- Install digital temperature monitors and check readings every 2-4 hours.
- Maintain a temperature log for Dubai Municipality inspections.
7. Follow FIFO (First-In, First-Out) Method
- Always use older stock before newer stock.
- Clearly label meat with receiving and expiry dates.
Conclusion
Arranging a meat chiller according to Dubai Municipality food safety regulations is essential
for maintaining hygiene, extending shelf life, and preventing foodborne illnesses. By following
proper temperature control, storage hierarchy, and hygiene practices, businesses can ensure
compliance and provide safe, high-quality meat products to customers.