San Saba News & Star
Weather Mostly Cloudy 78.0°F (69%)
Carolyn's Corner
Thursday, June 14, 2012 • Posted June 14, 2012

Can you Freeze Fresh meats in Supermarket Wrappings?

Unless you’ll use the frozen meat or poultry in a month or two, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that you add a second wrapping for long-term storage. Overwrap with airtight heavy-duty freezer foil, freezer paper or place the package inside a freezer bag. Why should you overwrap the meat? Air can still get through to the meat or poultry. Overwrapping the package helps maintain quality and prevent “freezer burn.” Is it safe to eat foods with freezer burn? It is safe to eat though they may be dry in spots. The meat is usually not as good quality wise as the air has reached the surface of the meat. Cut the freezer-burned portions away either before or after cooking. Discard heavily freezer-burned foods for quality reasons.

Can you Freeze Milk?

Yes, you can although it does change the milk. It often separates out. What is the best use for the milk? Frozen milk works best for cooking, but you may find it’s still okay for drinking. What shall I freeze the milk in? Freeze milk in plastic freezer containers or special freezer-proof glass jars. Leave some extra space (1/2inch for wide openings and 1 ½ inches for narrow openings like a fruit jar). Milk does expand when frozen. When I am ready to use the milk what do I do? Plan to use frozen milk within a month. Thaw milk in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.

Can you Freeze Cheese?

Hard or semi-hard cheese can be frozen if cut in 1/2 to 1-pound blocks. What shall I freeze it in? Wrap in plastic wrap and then put in freezer bags. After freezing, cheese may become crumbly and mealy, but, it will retain its flavor. What is the best way to use cheese that has been frozen? It works best for cooking. Plan to use frozen cheese within 4 to 6 months. Thaw cheese in the refrigerator. Use soon after thawing. Which cheese freezes best? Brick, Camembert, Cheddar, Edam, Mozzarella, Muenster, Parmesan, Provolone, Romano, Swiss, Blue cheeses are more prone to becoming crumbly but they’ll still taste good. What cheeses do not freeze well. Cream cheese and cottage cheese do not freeze well.

This article has been read 28 times.
Comments
Readers are solely responsible for the content of the comments they post here. Comments do not necessarily reflect the opinion or approval of San Saba News & Star. Comments are moderated and will not appear immediately.
Comments powered by Disqus