If you have food that’s about to spoil or you won’t finish in time, the freezer is your best friend. It keeps your meals fresh for a long time. Yet, it’s good to remember that frozen foods also come with expiration dates.
So, how long can you really keep food in the freezer without worrying about it going bad?
A recent social media post sparked this question. A guy showed his mom’s frozen potatoes that had a “use by” date of February 26, 2023. He wondered if it was still safe to eat.
This got the attention of Dr. Dana Figura, a surgeon from Los Angeles. In her response on Instagram, she shared surprising insight: According to the FDA, you can keep frozen food indefinitely! However, she cautioned that quality diminishes over time due to freezer burn. That’s why it’s still wise to follow storage time guidelines to enjoy your food at its best.
The Food Safety website says that food stored at 0°F (-18°C) can last indefinitely, but they recommend specific storage times for freshness. Here are some key points:
- Meat products: Hotdogs, bacon, and sausage last 1-2 months.
- Ground meat (like beef, pork, and lamb): 4-12 months.
- Leftovers: Usually good for about six months.
So how does freezing keep food fresh? Dr. Figura explains that freezing halts the growth of bacteria. However, once thawed, those microbes can become active again, making thorough cooking crucial.
It’s also worth noting that expiration dates differ from “best by” or “use by” dates. The latter indicates when food is at peak quality. So, using those frozen potatoes from early 2023? It might just be fine.
For those curious about food safety, a USDA report states that nearly 30% of food in the U.S. is wasted each year, much of it due to misconceptions about spoilage and expiration processes. Understanding how to properly freeze and store food can really help cut down on waste.
In conclusion, if you’re unsure about your frozen food, don’t throw it away based solely on the date. Use your senses, and remember that frozen food can be safe long after those dates while keeping its quality in mind.
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