Freezers are one of the most versatile food storage solutions, allowing households to extend the shelf life of food items by many months and even years. Whether your freezer is a standalone freezer integrated with your fridge a common feature of Westinghouse fridges and other reputable brands, use these storage tricks and tips to get the most out of your freezer.
Common Food Storage Durations
Effective storage duration periods are probably the most important thing to know about when keeping food in the freezer. These are the common recommended storage periods for individual food groups, and should be used only as a general guideline. If in doubt, follow the food producer’s instructions and storage directions on the package. Always defrost and cook food according to guidelines before eating where necessary.
Breads and other pastry goods
Most breads can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing freshness while pastry goods can be stored for 1 to 2 months. Wrap well to prevent the bread drying out. When defrosting, do so at room temperature. You can also toast bread straight from the freezer.
Unbaked dough
If you bake, it’s useful to know that unbaked dough can be kept in the freeze up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and remove any air bubbles before putting it into the freezer.
Dairy products
Some dairy products, such as whipped butter, buttermilk, cream, margarine, and custards, are best stored in the fridge rather than the freezer. However, milk and butter can be frozen. Milk can keep for around 1 month while butter can be kept up to 6 to 9 months in the freezer.
Fruit and Vegetables
Commercially frozen fruit can keep for up to 1 year in the freezer. While some fruits lose their texture and appeal after being frozen and defrosted, most fruits can be successfully frozen for up to 8 to 12 months and eaten without defrosting. Raw or cooked vegetables can also be kept for 8 to 12 months in the freezer.
Meat
Uncooked meat can kept for a long time in the freezer. Always safely defrost meat and cook at the appropriate temperature before consuming.
- Raw chicken can be kept for up to 9 to 12 months.
- Uncooked steak, chop, and steak can be kept for around 4 months or more.
- Ground meat or cooked meat can be kept for around 3 to 4 months in the freezer.
Freezing Tips
Frozen foods should be placed in the freezer immediately when you get home from the store. Make sure your freezer is set at least to minus 18 degree Celsius (0 degrees Fahrenheit).
Cool leftovers and cooked items before packaging and freezing them. Storing food in one or two serving sizes rather than large serving sizes can help it freeze more effectively. You’ll also be able to defrost it more quickly when you need to use the item.
Packaging and Labelling
Effective packaging and labelling can ensure freshness. It can also make it easier to find items in your freezer.
- Use air-tight containers for freezing where possible. If you have one of the quality Bosch dishwashers or any other branded dishwasher, your freezing container can be placed into the dishwasher after you defrost your items, making clean up an easy process.
- Wrap food properly by adding an additional layer of wrapping to reduce chance of leakage or having to clean up your freezer.
- Tightly wrap foods by pressing out as much air as possible. This will reduce the change of ice forming inside bags and prevent freezer burn.
- Food items can look different after freezing. Always label the item with a non-toxic pen or with self-adhesive labels and include the date of storage.
A – Z Guide for Storing Food in the Freezer is a post from: Price Pirate
