Identification

• Label all items with the date, expiration date (if applicable) and contents. Keep a list of the foods stored in your freezer, with expiration dates, to facilitate meal planning and grocery shopping. Colored labels or dots for different kinds of foods (meat, fish, vegetable, fruit) can be used for instant identification.
  
  

Containers and Preparation

• Use freezer wrap, airtight plastic bags or good quality sealed containers to protect your food from freezer burn, odors and other unpleasant effects. Look for plastic containers in rectangular shapes when possible because they will use the space more efficiently than round containers.
  
  

Storage Solutions

• Use the dividers in your freezer to your advantage. Keep frozen vegetables and fruits in one and meats in another to minimize searching. Store foods that you use frequently near the front: ice cream, coffee and fish or meats you plan to use within a week or two. In the back of the freezer, store foods that you use on an infrequent basis or are planning to use within a month or two, such as meats, frozen vegetables or dried goods.