Life of Foods in Freezer

By valleyrimgirl (Guest Post)

Just because it may say that "..." is only good for 6 months doesn't mean that at the 6 1/2 months it is bad. Just check it.

With meat, the more fat in it the quicker it goes rancid. Pork and beef are bad for that, whereas venison can literally stay for years. Also, if the meat is tightly wrapped, no air getting next to it, it does not get freezer burn spots.

If the item is water packed or in a sauce it will not get freezer burnt like individual pieces would. For example, mashed raspberries in a container will stay for years and yet the individual raspberries I would use before the following summer.

No need to throw out something just because a "list" says it is bad. You paid for it and ...Just check the item and ...if it has freezer burn spots, for example, on meat, cut them off and see what the meat is like...probably can be used. Bread...goes hard and I would throw it out. Items in the bottom of the freezer will stay good longer than at the top, where the temperature fluctuates because you're opening and closing the lid all the time.

By

eyedocwife

Here is a site I have found helpful...scroll to the bottom for the index of the foods:
http://www.azdhs.gov/phs/oeh/fses/sfstt.htm

Also, here is a link for the shelf life of pantry items in case you are interested:
http://www.a1usa.net/gary/expire.html