When preparing food for freezing how high do you fill storage containers?

To ensure the best quality and safety of frozen foods, it is crucial to leave some headspace in storage containers when filling them. The amount of headspace you should leave depends on the type of food and the type of container you are using. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Rigid containers (such as plastic or glass): For rigid containers, you should leave about 1/2 to 1 inch (1.5 to 2.5 cm) of headspace. This allows for the food to expand as it freezes, preventing the container from cracking or breaking.

2. Flexible containers (such as freezer bags): For flexible containers, you should leave a bit more headspace, about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm). This is because flexible containers can expand more easily than rigid ones. Be sure to seal the bag tightly to prevent freezer burn.

3. Liquids: When freezing liquids, such as soups or sauces, leave about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of headspace to allow for expansion.

Here are a few additional tips for preparing food for freezing:

* Use freezer-safe containers that are clean and dry.

* Label each container with the name of the food, the date it was frozen, and any special instructions.

* Cool cooked foods to room temperature before freezing.

* Freeze foods in small quantities for quicker freezing and easier thawing.

* Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or in the microwave on the defrost setting. Never thaw frozen foods at room temperature.