What Are the Best Tips for Storing and Preparing Frozen Foods?

Frozen foods are both convenient and cost-effective for aging adults. Whether seniors are eating home-cooked meals that have been prepared in advance and then stored in the freezer or are relying on things like frozen vegetables to eat healthier, there are lots of ways to make meals easier with frozen food. Senior home care can help even more to make healthy, regular meals something seniors have easy access to on a daily basis.

Storing Frozen Foods Properly

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to storing frozen foods properly. First, the ideal temperature for frozen foods is 0 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. It’s a good idea to use a freezer thermometer to verify that the freezer is set to the proper temperature. Most frozen foods have a recommended storage time. Homemade foods are usually okay to freeze for up to several months at a time. Pre-packaged frozen foods can be kept in the containers they were purchased in, but over time they can develop freezer burn. Homemade foods should be stored in airtight containers, like freezer bags, in order to keep them as safe as possible from both freezer burn and contamination. Label containers with the date and the food that is in the container.

Preparing Frozen Foods

Most frozen foods should be thawed before cooking, especially if those foods will be cooked in the oven or on the stovetop. Microwaveable foods might not need thawing first, depending on the type of food going into the microwave. Foods that do need to be thawed should always be kept in the fridge, not on the kitchen counter. Although lots of people make it a habit to thaw foods on the kitchen counter, this can actually be a dangerous choice in terms of food safety. Thorough cooking helps to kill off bacteria and ensure that food is safe to eat.

Dealing with Leftovers

Leftovers can be a danger area for seniors. If there is food left over, it should be put into the refrigerator as quickly as possible after eating. Leftovers in the refrigerator aren’t going to stick around forever, unfortunately. Seniors may need help from family caregivers or home care providers to stay on top of clearing out the fridge periodically so leftovers don’t become dangerous.

Senior Home Care Can Be a Huge Help

Home care providers are always helpful when it comes to keeping seniors fed a healthy diet. They can assist seniors with shopping for healthy foods, preparing meals, and making sure that foods are stored safely. Senior home care can also help to make sure that aging adults are eating regularly, which can be a big problem at times.

The easier it is for aging adults to access safe and healthy food, the more likely they are going to be eating healthy meals on a regular basis. Frozen foods and meals can help to make that happen. Senior home care is an imperative resource if aging adults need some extra help keeping up with meal preparation and other tasks related to cooking and eating.

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Fountain Hills, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!