How To Freezer Cook Series

Continuing with our How To Freezer Cook Series to we are discussing storage tips. When it comes to storage it is important that you understand how long you can keep frozen foods.  It is better to be safe than sorry.  

You don’t want to eat a mystery item in your freezer and end up making your family sick. Follow these simple tips in order to keep everyone healthy and safe.

How To Freezer Cook Series – Freezer Storage

Most freezer meals should be kept for no more than 3 months. When using a zip loc bag you can keep it for 2-3 months max.  By using the foodsaver you can extend that time by up to 2 years (according to the manufacturer).  This is why it is important to label and date every single freezer meal that you make.

An old trick Shelley learned in her serving days is label, date, and rotate. Date foods when you buy them with a sharpie marker and rotate accordingly. Always use the oldest first. Foods stored for longer than recommended or beyond date on the package may change quality, color and flavor.  If you freeze the food when it is close to expiration you can extend the shelf life.  So always go First In, First Out (FIFO) when it comes to stocking and eating the food in your pantry/stockpile.

Another tip is to inventory your freezer. Keep a list on the outside of the freezer door and when you use an item mark if off the inventory.  I like to use a clear sheet protector and slip the list inside.  I keep it clipped to the side of my freezer. This is also nice in menu planning because you can look at the list and plan your menu accordingly. Read this post on monthly menu planning.

If you are new to the concept of monthly menu planning this post will help you get started:

Tips for Monthly Menu Planning

If you are new (or even experienced) to freezer cooking:

Part 1 – Sample Menu and Getting Started

Part 2 – Why Does Freezer Cooking Work

Part 3 – Planning Your Meals

Part 4 – Tips and Tricks for Freezer Efficiency

Part 5 – What Can You Freeze?

Part 6 – Freezer Storage

Part 7 – Tips for Thawing Your Meals

Part 8 – Make Your Own Freezer Pancakes

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