Food Storage Guide, Storing fresh food

Food Storage Guide

There is a correct way to package and store refrigerated or frozen food. To keep food fresher, longer, take the time to study these recommended steps.

Storing fresh food

Wrap or store food in the refrigerator in air-tight and moisture-proof material. This prevents food odor and taste transfer throughout the refrigerator. For dated products, check code date to ensure freshness.

Cheese

Store in the original wrapping until you are ready to use it. Once opened, rewrap tightly in plastic wrap or alumi- num foil.

Leafy vegetables

Remove store wrapping and trim or tear off bruised and discolored areas. Wash in cold water and drain. Place in plastic bag or plastic container and store in crisper.

Vegetables with skins

(carrots, peppers)

Store in crisper, plastic bags, or plastic container.

Fruit

Wash, let dry, and store in refrigerator in plastic bags or crisper. Do not wash or hull berries until they are ready to use. Sort and keep berries in their original container in a crisper, or store in a loosely closed paper bag on a refrigera- tor shelf.

Eggs

Store without washing in the original carton on interior shelf.

Milk

Wipe milk cartons. For best storage, place milk on interior shelf.

Leftovers

Cover leftovers with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Plastic containers with tight lids can also be used.

Meat

Store most meat in original wrapping as long as it is airtight and moisture-proof. Rewrap if necessary. See the following chart for storage times.

APPROXIMATE TIME

TYPE(DAYS)+

Chicken		1 to 2
Ground	beef	1 to 2
Steaks	and roasts	3 to 5
Cured	meats	7to 10
Bacon		5 to 7
Cold cuts		3 to 5
Variety	meats	1 to2

+When storing meat longer than the times given, follow the directions for freezing.

NOTE: Use fresh fish and shellfish the same day as purchased.

Butter or margarine

Keep opened butter in covered dish or closed compartment. When storing an extra supply, wrap in freezer packaging and freeze.