Refrigerating and Freezing

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.

Selected Recipes

• Uncooked Jams and Jellies
• Ball Freezer Jams

Handouts

• How to Freeze - the complete list
• Blanching for Vegetables - before you freeze
• Food Storage for Safety and Quality
• Storing Food for Safety and Quality
• Freezer Lemon Curd
• UGA Freezing Fruit