Check out my guest post over at Neat Nest Organizing on 5 Ways to Organize Coupons!

Reader Jenn sent this to me the other day asking about the best foods you can freeze:

“I was wondering if maybe you could do an article or list of foods you can store in the freezer? When using coupons to stockpile I often run into perishable things that I would buy many more of if I could figure out a way to extend there shelf life.”

Lucky for me, I have a friend who is a professional organizer and actually helps family plan meals ahead of time by effectively utilizing your freezer.  So I turned to her to see if she could better answer Jenn’s question.

To freeze or not to freeze? That is the question or perhaps the dilemma you might face when considering whether to take advantage of that great couponing deal you’ve come across.  No need to fear. Use the following guidelines and tips to do what you do best- stock up and save!

Many things freeze well, so it may be most helpful to start with those that don’t.  The following items break down, separate or experience a change in texture when frozen.

*Don’t freeze:

-Raw vegetables that have a high water content.  These include lettuce, cucumbers, radishes, and celery

-Raw eggs in shells, cooked egg whites or hard-cooked eggs

-Raw or boiled potatoes (the texture turns mealy and watery; may turn black)

-Soft cheeses like cottage cheese, ricotta and feta (unless they are part of a prepared recipe that is made ahead and then frozen)

-Sour cream or mayonnaise (unless they’re mixed into a sauce)

-Cake icings made with egg whites; cream fillings; soft frostings

-Custard or cream filled pies

-Fried Foods

*from the book, Frozen Assets by Deborah Taylor-Hough

Online Resources

Real Simple has two resources that I use for quick reference when planning my meals and shopping trips.

How Long Will Food Last in the Freezer? has a general list of common items with recommended freezer time frames.

The Ultimate Food-Storage Guide is a detailed handbook that includes specific foods and gives recommended lengths of storage time for the fridge, freezer and pantry.

Product FAQ Page

For a name-brand product that I’m interested in freezing, a search on its home page under FAQs often produces an answer as well.  If you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, use the company’s contact page to ask your food preservation question and wait for a response.

Plus, if you contact them commenting on their product – they just might send you a coupon!

Freezing perishable foods is one of the best ways to preserve them, and in many cases, the easiest way, too.

What are some of your favorite foods to stockpile and freeze?  Do you have any favorite foods you can freeze?

Read about more organaztional tips from Robin at Neat Nest Organizing!