Have you ever noticed the star ratings on freezer compartments? It's understandable that some people may not fully grasp their significance and end up storing food haphazardly in any drawer. These stars actually indicate the temperature of the compartment, and in turn, determine how long food can be safely stored. To help you better understand the star system, we have prepared a summary for you to print out and tape inside your freezer.
Freezer Star Rating
One star (*)
Signifies a temperature of -6 degrees Celsius, perfect for making ice cubes and keeping food fresh for three to four days.
Two stars (**)
Indicates a temperature of -12 degrees Celsius, allowing food to be stored for fifteen to twenty days.
Three stars (***)
Represents a temperature of -18 degrees Celsius, ensuring the safety of food for up to three months.
Four stars (****), below -18 degrees Celsius, offer the ideal conditions for freezing down fresh and pre-cooked foods.
Storage Duration
Most frozen food products in supermarkets are clearly labelled to indicate their recommended storage duration. Combining this information with the star ratings provides an easy way to ensure that your frozen food remains safe to eat. When you purchase chilled or frozen food, it's advisable to place it in the freezer as soon as possible. If you have a long journey ahead or if the weather is particularly hot, consider investing in an insulated cool bag to maintain the food at a safe temperature.
Cost Savings
While running a freezer consumes a significant amount of electricity, there are potential savings to be made through the convenient bulk purchase of food. Freezers operate most efficiently when they are full and in use. If you tend to view your freezer as a spot solely for storing ice cream and the occasional packet of peas, you may want to utilize the icebox on the top of your refrigerator instead. However, if you're looking to maximize the benefits of frozen storage, understanding the star ratings and optimizing your freezer usage is the way to go.
By familiarizing yourself with the star system and following these guidelines, you can ensure that your frozen food remains fresh, safe, and ready to be enjoyed whenever you need it.