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Always mark packs with the date of freezing, quantity and type of food and make sure
that foods are fresh and in good condition.
Storing frozen foods
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When purchasing frozen foods, always take care that the pack is not damaged, that the
product is not past its sell-by date and that the thermometer of the freezer in which the
products are displayed for sale does not show a temperature above -18°C. Also note the
temperature advice, storage period and modes of consumption stated by the producer.
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Purchased foods should also be protected using suitable insulated containers during
transportation to eliminate the risk of thawing. An increase in temperature might reduce
their storage life and adversely affect their quality.
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Do not purchase frozen foods which are carrying too much frost; they might already have
been thawed.
Thawing frozen foods
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Partially thawed foods should be eaten as soon as possible. Low temperatures preserve
foods but they do not destroy the micro-organisms which are activated after thawing,
which may cause the stored foods to deteriorate. If thawed foods smell and look normal,
they can be cooked and if required re-frozen once they have cooled.
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Depending on their type and intended use, frozen foods can be thawed correctly at room
temperature, in the refrigerator, in an electric oven (conventional or fan), or in a
microwave oven using the relevant function.
Helpful hints and tips
Hints for freezing
To help you make the most of the freezing process, here are some important hints:
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The maximum quantity of food which can be frozen in 24 hrs. is shown on the rating
plate.;
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The freezing process takes 24 hours. No further food to be frozen should be added
during this period;
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Only freeze top quality, fresh and thoroughly cleaned, foodstuffs;
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Prepare food in small portions to enable it to be rapidly and completely frozen and to
make it possible subsequently to thaw only the quantity required;
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Wrap up the food in aluminium foil or polythene and make sure that the packages are
airtight;
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Do not allow fresh, unfrozen food to touch food which is already frozen, thus avoiding
a rise in temperature of the latter;
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Lean foods store better and longer than fatty ones; salt reduces the storage life of
food;
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Ices cubes, if consumed immediately after removal from the freezer compartment, can
possibly cause the skin to be freeze burnt;
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It is advisable to show the freezing in date on each individual pack to enable you to
keep tab of the storage time.
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