A freezer is an appliance that is essential for storing food products. The food needs to be stored at a very low temperature to increase its shelf life. The low temperature prevents the growth of any bacteria that may spoil the food products. Based on scientific studies, freezing food is a great method of food preservation. It stops the growth and movement of microbes that lead to food spoilage. It doesn’t kill the microbes, but it could stop them in their tracks.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, freezing keeps food safe by slowing the movement of molecules, causing microbes to enter a dormant stage. They also stated that freezing preserves food for extended periods because it prevents the growth of microorganisms that cause both food spoilage and foodborne illness. When it comes to nutrient retention, USDA stated that the freezing process itself does not destroy nutrients, but meat and poultry products, there is little change in nutrient value during freezer storage.
Here is the freezer storage chart from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA):
Items and Month
Bacon and Sausage- 1 to 2
Casseroles- 2 to 3
Egg whites or egg substitutes- 12
Frozen Dinners and Entrees- 3 to 4
Gravy, meat or poultry- 2 to 3
Ham, Hotdogs and Lunch Meats- 1 to 2
Meat, uncooked roasts- 4 to 12
Meat, uncooked steaks or chops- 4 to 12
Meat, uncooked ground- 3 to 4
Meat, cooked- 2 to 3
Poultry, uncooked whole- 12
Poultry, uncooked parts- 9
Poultry, uncooked giblets- 3 to 4
Poultry, cooked- 4
Soups and Stews- 2 to 3
Wild game, uncooked- 8 to 12
Keep Your Freezer At Zero Degrees Or Below
Measuring your freezer’s temperature can help you determine if it is working properly. If your unit is still set at factory default control settings, check your owner’s manual for specific model settings. The upright and chest freezers should measure between -5 and +6 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer section of your refrigerator should measure between -5 and +8 degrees Fahrenheit. At temperatures between 0°F and 32°F, food deteriorates more rapidly. By following this measurement of your freezer temperature, then you can maintain the good quality of your goods. Do not plan to store frozen foods for the maximum suggested time if your appliance cannot keep the zero degree temperatures. Do not destroy pathogenic or spoilage microorganisms, which will begin growing under warmer temperatures. When frozen foods are thawed at room temperature, the surface of the food warms enough for microorganisms to grow and multiply.
Hire A Professional to Assist You!
If you find your freezer not working, not cooling, over-cooling, temperature not stable, damaged door seal, and making noise. It’s your sign to hire a professional technician who is competent in resolving your appliance. There’s nothing to worry about it because Platinum Sub Zero Repair can assist you with that. All of our technicians are well-trained and well-educated. They know how to fix everything about your freezer’s issues. Expect our technicians to give you high-quality services. You can get in touch with our customer service team round-the-clock.
