The 5 rules of freezing

1

Label everything

Clearly label containers with the date on which the food was frozen. I also write roughly how many portions there are, and what it could be used in.

2

Airless

Ever defrosted something, then found it’s got a weird skin on it? That’s freezer burn, and it comes from exposing frozen goods to the cold air. To combat this, fill containers fully before covering, or push all the air out of freezer bags before closing.

3

Freeze at best

You get out what you put in – if something is on the turn, freezing it won’t change that. So, if you’re not going to eat something for a couple of days, freeze it straightaway rather than watch it go off.

4

Freeze from cold, not hot

Putting hot food in your freezer will defrost everything. Cool to room temperature first.

5

Freezing isn’t forever

Things will still eventually go off or not be as good if frozen for too long, so use our guide, right, and eat within safe freezing times.