Freezer Packaging Materials

• Freezer food packaging materials include freezer bags, vacuum storage bags, aluminum foil and a variety of rigid containers in glass, plastic or metal. Be sure that the containers you choose for your freezer are food safe and freezer safe. Different materials can work well for different foods. Considerations should include space, the type of food, and how you prefer to thaw and prepare the frozen food.
  
  

Freezer Packaging Strategies

• Some of the best food packaging methods for the freezer involve flash freezing foods. Lay berries, muffins, cookies or other single-serve items out in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Place in the freezer until frozen hard, then store in freezer bags. Save space in your freezer by laying foil in a casserole dish to prepare casseroles for the freezer. Prep the casserole as desired and cover with foil. Secure with freezer tape, then freeze in the pan. Once it is frozen solid, remove from the pan and neatly stack your foil-wrapped casseroles in the freezer.
  
  

Storing Bulk Pantry Goods

• Bulk pantry goods should be in airtight packaging to keep out pests and keep your food fresh. Many companies make sturdy and stackable plastic containers for this purpose, but these can be expensive. Glass jars in various sizes are a good choice for pantry food packaging. They are affordable, accessible, and can be quite attractive if displayed on open shelving. If you store larger amounts of bulk foods, consider using lidded food-grade buckets.
  
  

Packaging for the Refrigerator

• Packaging foods for your refrigerator is easier than food packaging for the freezer. Choose lidded containers for your refrigerator. Stackable containers can help make the most of space. Specialty produce containers offer better air circulation and can help fresh foods last longer in the refrigerator. Food packaging methods used for the freezer, including plastic zipper storage bags and foil, will work in the refrigerator as well.
  
  

Keeping Dry Goods Fresh

• Smart food packaging tricks can even keep basic dry goods such as crackers and cereal fresh and tasty. You can use clothespins or clips to hold bags closed or repackage these foods into plastic storage containers or plastic zipper bags to keep them fresh longer. If you are packaging foods for the whole family, choose methods that the kids can use easily.