Many households throw out spoiled food on a regular basis, but not only is this extremely expensive and wasteful, it’s contributing to the global issue of food waste. With a better understanding on how to freeze produce safely and properly, we can prevent loads of food from being discarded. All kinds of food can be rescued by being stored in the freezer, but most people have a misunderstanding of what can actually be frozen so end up wasting more food than necessary.

If you have bought too much at the supermarket, have items you’re not going to use in the next week, or have leftovers, pop them in the freezer to make them last longer. It’s always best to freeze items before the use by date printed on the packaging.

Raw and cooked meat can be kept in the freezer, as well as fruit and vegetables, hard cheese, milk, bread and much more. Just remember to wrap goods well in foil or cling film, or place them in an airtight container before placing them in the freezer to prevent freezer burn.

Labelling each item with what it is and the date you froze it is a good way of staying on top of what you have in there, what needs eating and what you need to buy. Whenever you take something out of the freezer, make sure to thaw it properly before cooking or eating.