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Packaging
Proper packaging helps prevent freezer
burn, and helps limit odor transfer in the
freezer.
For short term storage, freeze meat or
poultry directly in supermarket wrapping.
This meat should be used within 1 to 2
months.
For long term storage, follow these wrap-
ping guidelines:
• Overwrap store wrapped packages
with airtight heavy duty foil, plastic
wrap, freezer paper or freezer bags.
• Freeze unopened vacuum wrapped
packages as they are.
• Make sure lids are sealed tightly when
using airtight freezer containers.
• Break down foods into smaller portions
for faster freezing.
• Remove as much air as possible from
packages before placing in the freezer.
• If a package has accidentally been torn
or damaged while in the freezer, the
food is still safe to eat. Just overwrap it
or repackage it.
• It is not necessary to rinse meat or
poultry before freezing.
Cooking frozen foods
Foods can be cooked or reheated directly
from the frozen state. The cooking time
will increase to almost one and a half
times it would normally take. Remember
when cooking poultry or meat to remove
paper wrapping, giblet sacks, and any
strings that might burn during cooking.
Some meats, such as pre-stuffed whole
birds, must be cooked from the frozen
state to ensure food safety. Remember to
read the USDA label on the meat.
NOTE: Do not use a slow cooker for
preparing foods from the frozen state.
FREEZER
STORAGE CHART*
NOTE: Freezer storage time is for
quality only. Frozen foods remain safe
indefinitely.
Foodstuff Months
Bacon and Sausage 1 to 2
Casseroles 1 to 2
Egg whites or egg substitutes 12
Gravy, meat or poultry 2 to 3
Ham, Hot Dogs and
Lunch Meats 1 to 2
Meat, uncooked roasts 9
Meat, uncooked steaks or
chops 4 to 6
Meat, uncooked ground 3 to 4
Meat, cooked 2 to 3
Poultry, uncooked whole 12
Poultry, uncooked parts 9
Poultry, uncooked giblets 3 to 4
Poultry, cooked 3 to 4
Soups and Stews 2 to 3
Wild game, uncooked 8 to 12
* Provided by the USDA.
Chart is based on food storage at
0° F (-18° C) or slightly below.