With the rise of in-store food promotions leading to increased sales and, unfortunately, household food waste, it’s time we rethink our approach to food storage. One effective strategy is to freeze store-bought items, a practice that not only extends their shelf life but also reduces waste. Here are eight items that I always freeze to avoid waste.
1. Bread
Freezing bread is a great way to extend its life and reduce waste. Whether it’s a loaf, baguette, or rolls, bread freezes well and can be easily defrosted when needed. This way, you can take advantage of in-store promotions without worrying about the bread going stale before you can consume it all.
2. Berries
Berries are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, but they can spoil quickly. Freezing them not only preserves their freshness but also locks in their nutritional value. Plus, frozen berries can be used in smoothies, desserts, or as a topping for your morning cereal or yogurt.
3. Meat
Meat can be quite expensive, so it’s a shame when it goes to waste. Freezing meat, whether it’s beef, chicken, or fish, ensures that it stays fresh until you’re ready to cook it. Just remember to properly package it to prevent freezer burn. This practice aligns with the use of “blast freezers” by store owners to improve food safety and quality, and reduce waste, as reported by WHYY.
4. Vegetables
Vegetables, especially leafy greens, can wilt quickly. Freezing them not only extends their life but also preserves their nutritional value. You can freeze a variety of vegetables, including spinach, broccoli, and peas, and use them in your cooking as needed.
5. Dairy Products
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and butter can also be frozen to extend their shelf life. This is particularly useful if you’ve bought these items in bulk during a sale. Just remember to thaw them properly before use.
6. Cooked Meals
If you’ve cooked a large meal and have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste. Instead, freeze them in individual portions. This not only reduces waste but also provides you with ready-to-eat meals for those days when you don’t feel like cooking.
7. Herbs
Fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor to your meals, but they don’t last very long. Freezing them in ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil can keep them fresh for longer. You can then pop these herb cubes directly into your cooking pot as needed.
8. Dough
If you enjoy baking, you might find yourself with excess dough. Instead of throwing it away, freeze it. Whether it’s pizza dough, pie crust, or cookie dough, it can be frozen and used at a later date. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked goods whenever you want, without any waste.
By freezing these store-bought items, we can not only reduce food waste but also save money and enjoy our favorite foods for longer. As highlighted by Brisbane City Council, reducing food waste at home is an important step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, remember that your freezer can be your best ally in the fight against food waste.
