Storing and Freezing Food
Learning the proper way to store and freeze food can be extremely helpful. When you know how to store food the right way, it will last longer and prevent bad smells in your fridge or kitchen. Freezing food, on the other hand, is the perfect way to reduce food waste and is convenient. You can defrost a frozen meal when you’re running short on time and need a quick bite; you can even prepare meals in advance and freeze them for when you want. Another plus side is you don’t need to worry about the frozen foods going bad. But, there are some quirks to each food type when it comes to storing and freezing, so this article will go through the basics!
Cooked Meals
Storing in the Fridge
Let food cool before storing in fridge, but don’t let it sit out for too long.
Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for 3 to 4 months. Although safe indefinitely, frozen leftovers can lose moisture and flavor when stored for longer times in the freezer.
Freezing
Cut large items into small pieces (divide soups into smaller pots, cut up whole hams/chickens, etc.)
If a large container of leftovers was frozen and only a portion of it is needed, it is safe to thaw the leftovers in the refrigerator, remove the needed portion and refreeze the remainder of the thawed leftovers without reheating it.
Breads
How Long It Can Last
Typically lasts 3-5 days.
Can notice it’s gone bad if mold starts growing.
Storing
Put bread in a bread box or paper bag (a little air keeps the bread crust firm), or in its original plastic packaging.
For best results, keep your bread in a cabinet, drawer, or on the counter, and avoid storing bread in warm spots.
Freezing
Store-bought bread: put right in the freezer (keep in packaging)
Homemade bread: wrap tightly in plastic wrap or in a sealed plastic bag.
Can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Dairy
Storing
Milk and yogurt can last up to a week, while cheese up to a month (always look at expiration dates).
Dairy has gone bad if you see any mold growing, notice a weird smell, and/or curdle.
Freezing
Dairy can be frozen – just know its texture and appearance can change.
Consume as soon as possible after thawing.
Eggs
Store for up to 4-5 weeks.
Keep covered and in their carton.
Freezing is often unnecessary and not recommended.
Meat
Storing in fridge
In general, store for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Always check the product label for the expiration date and storage tips.
Cooked meat: see section on cooked foods.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 6 months
Prevent cross-contamination from other foods by keeping it tightly packed in a plastic bag or sealed container.
Produce
General information
Can notice they have gone bad if there is discoloration, mold, or if it is mushy.
When they are ripe, consume as soon as possible. If they are unripe, they can be stored for a longer period.
Storing
Need to keep dry (can line containers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture).
Some produce, like bananas and avocados, should be stored at room temperature. When they are ripe, you can either consume or transfer to the fridge.
Freezing
Most fruits and vegetables can be frozen.
Wash your produce thoroughly before freezing, as freezing doesn't sterilize it.
Freeze in tightly sealed plastic bags or containers.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, the “rules” to storing and freezing foods are quite similar among different types of food. For hygiene purposes, it’s important to always store in airtight containers, freezer bags, or cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’s also important to clean your fridge regularly to prevent bacteria building. To thaw or defrost food, the best way is to place it in the fridge. You could also place the container in a bowl of cold water and leave on the counter. Another possible way to thaw frozen food is to microwave it. This defrosts it in just a few minutes, but you should then consume the food immediately as bacteria can grow. If you are not in a rush, it is best to take the frozen food out a few hours before.
A good tip to live by when it comes to storing and freezing food, or knowing if a food has gone bad: when in doubt, throw it out!
