The general rule for freezer meals is 3-6 months.

But we have had staff members “taste test” meals that have been frozen up to a year. It really comes down to your taste buds. Generally, produce will keep its quality longer than meats, but here are some guidelines for individual types of food.

Bacteria will not grow on frozen foods, but they can become freezer burned or lose taste and quality the longer they are frozen.

Recommendations:

  • Fruits and Vegetables: 8-12 months
  • Poultry, uncooked: 12 months
  • Poultry, cooked: 4 months
  • Fish: 3-6 months
  • Meat, Roasts, Steaks, etc; uncooked: 4-12 months
  • Ground Meat, uncooked: 3-4 months
  • Meat, cooked: 4 months
  • Cured or Processed Meats: 1-2 months
  • Casseroles: 2-3 months
  • Soups and stews: 2-3 months

*Recommended storage times are not necessarily for safety, but are for quality.

Freezer Storage Cheat Sheet