Kitchen design
How to Freeze Food Safely: What, When and for How Long
Your freezer is the best tool for cutting waste over Christmas. The right temperature, how long food keeps its quality, and the defrosting rules that matter.
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Freezing pauses food, so it is ideal for using up leftovers and getting ahead before a busy week. A few simple rules from the Food Standards Agency keep it safe.
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The numbers
| FSA guidance | |
|---|---|
| Freezer temperature | Around -18°C (0°F) |
| Fridge temperature | Between 0 and 5°C (41°F) |
| Freezing chilled food | Any time up to midnight on the use-by date |
| Cooked leftovers | Cool, then freeze within 1 to 2 hours |
| Using defrosted food | Within 24 hours of fully defrosting |
How long frozen food keeps its quality
The FSA says meats are usually best eaten within 2 to 3 months, and baked goods, fruit and vegetables within 3 to 4 months. This is about quality: freezing keeps food safe.
Freezing well
- Cool hot food first, splitting it into smaller portions so it cools faster.
- Label everything with what it is and the date.
- Use airtight containers or freezer bags, and squeeze out the air to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze in the portions you will use.
Defrosting
- Defrost in the fridge, in a container that catches drips, or in the microwave on the defrost setting just before cooking.
- Make sure food is fully defrosted in the middle before cooking.
- Cooked food that has been frozen can be frozen again once cooked, but then reheated only once.
For Christmas, see how to store Christmas leftovers and the fridge storage guide.
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Frequently asked questions
What temperature should my freezer be?
The Food Standards Agency says around -18°C (0°F).
Can I freeze food on its use-by date?
Yes. The FSA says you can freeze food right up until midnight on the use-by date.
How long does food last in the freezer?
Frozen food stays safe, but quality drops. The FSA says meats are usually best within 2 to 3 months, and baked goods, fruit and vegetables within 3 to 4 months.
Sources
- How to chill, freeze and defrost food safely, Food Standards Agency (GOV.UK), 18 December 2017. Checked 17 October 2026.