Preventing freezer burn

Throwing away food does nothing but hurt your budget. Here are a few tips on freezer burn to help you avoid having to throw away frozen food.

• Freeze items in containers made for this purpose
• When storing cooked foods, try to store them in liquid. For example, cooked chicken can have some of the chicken broth added to the container before freezing
• Fill containers at least 3/4 full leaving only enough room for expansion when frozen. This will eliminate air space
• If using bags to freeze, "burp" them before freezing
• If you have access to a vacuum sealer, this will preserve your foods the longest
• Date you foods, store using the FIFO system (First In First Out)
• Once store bought frozen food has been opened, do not leave the package open. You will need to repackage remaining items in a freezer bag or container. Cut the preparation info off the package and put inside your new one.
• Keep your freezer 3/4 full. This will help keep it a steady temperature.
• Self defrosting freezers have greater temperature fluctuations, so for longer storage choose one that you do manually.

Thanks Brown Eyed Baker and Favorite Freezer Foods for the tips!