Refrigerate and Freeze

Cold temperatures slow the rate of food spoilage. Freezing extends the shelf life of food for up to a year and retains much of the flavor and nutritive value.

Our first tip on refrigerators and freezers is to make sure they are keeping your products cold enough.  Use a refrigerator/freezer thermometer--it is printed with the correct cold zones for both.  Refrigerators should be no warmer than 40º F.  Freezers should be 0º F or less.  Food storage life drops quickly at warmer temperatures.

Links below open in a new window.

• Freezing - National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP)
• Blanching Vegetables - NCHFP
• Food Storage for Safety and Quality - Colorado State University Extension
• Food Freezing Guide - North Dakota State University (PDF)
• What to do if the Freezer Stops - Oregon State University Extension (PDF)

Recipes

• Freezer Lemon Curd - NCHFP
• Freezer Jams - Oregon State University Extension (PDF))

More!  download recipes and handouts from our Wednesday evening demos.