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Freezer meals can be homemade or store-bought, offering convenience for busy individuals. Homemade meals can be frozen in large batches or individual portions, while store-bought meals can be high in sodium and preservatives. It’s important to use freezer meals within a few weeks to a few months and eat them in moderation.
Freezer meals can refer to two different things: meals that you make in larger batches, then freeze, or pre-made meals that can be bought at the grocery store. Regardless of the type of meal, meals in the freezer can be very convenient and easy to put in the microwave or reheat on the stovetop for dinner. It may also be helpful to prepare a number of meals that can be frozen for a friend or family member who is having a difficult time and may not be able to cook.
Some people find that the best way to prepare meals in the freezer is to pack large batches of a favorite meal, then divide it into smaller containers. It works well with many different foods, including soups, meats, vegetables, and even some pasta dishes when made with sauce. Even desserts like cakes and cookies freeze quite well. Some people try to cook just a few times a month, in order to buy food in bulk and save time and money.
Freezing meals in smaller individual portions, rather than in large batches, makes it easier to take out a meal, defrost and enjoy it, rather than having to defrost another large meal. It’s important to use up freezer meals within a few weeks to a few months of freezing them. While foods certainly stay much longer in the freezer, they shouldn’t be left in the freezer longer than six months as a general rule.
Freezer meals that can be purchased at the grocery store are another option. These often take just a few minutes in the microwave and come with a full meal of protein, veggies and starch, and a small dessert. These can be quick and convenient, but there are often some downsides to eating this type of freezer meal on a regular basis rather than preparing “real” food at home.
First, the sodium content in these freezer meals is often surprisingly high; plus, they’re often high in fat and preservatives, which some people try to avoid. As with most things, these freezer meals are great when eaten in moderation, but it can be a good idea to try making your own meals some time in, rather than always relying on ones from the grocery store. Even freezer meals from the grocery store shouldn’t be kept in the freezer for months; eat them within a few months of purchase and always date the package before freezing.
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