Storage

Freezer storage basics

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

Freezing keeps food safe almost indefinitely; quality drops over time.

Typical storage time: Safe indefinitely at −18°C; best quality within 3–6 months

Best for

  • Batch meals, bread, meat, fruit and veg

Avoid for

  • Refreezing thawed raw food
  • Poorly wrapped food (freezer burn)

Good to know

Label and date everything. Freeze in portions, leave headspace in liquids, and defrost in the fridge. Cooked food made from thawed ingredients can be refrozen.

Sources & references

  1. UK Food Standards Agency — Storage & food dates
  2. NHS — How to store food safely
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