Storing & discarding

Divide large packages of meat into smaller portions. It is safe to freeze meat or poultry directly in its supermarket wrapping but this type of wrap allows air to get in. Unless you will be using the food in a month or two, wrap these packages as you would any food for long-term storage using airtight heavy-duty foil, (freezer) plastic wrap or freezer paper, or place the package inside a (freezer) plastic bag.

Wrap your meat for the freezer using these steps

freezer wrap steps

illustration courtesy of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service

While raw ground meat stays fresh in the freezer for 3 to 4 months, larger pieces of meat like steaks or chops will be good for 4 to 12 months, according to USDA/FSIS. At 0 degrees F, frozen foods remain safe indefinitely.

How to Tell if Your Lunch Meats Have Gone Bad

RECIPES

ALL

Fruit Crisp

Tips:

Great way to use less than perfect apples!

How to get it on SALE--EVERY TIME

Check grocery ads and store websites for sales and coupons.
When you see an item advertised on sale, add it to your shopping list and stock up, making sure to note the brand, package size and cost.

Check and chuck! Check your refrigerator every day, your freezer every week and your pantry at least once a month. Add it to your meal plan before you have to toss it.

When you plan ahead for healthy snacks, you're less likely to reach for the bag of chips when you're hungry.

Ensure a healthy diet!

Include something from each group: fruit, vegetable, protein, bread, and dairy.

Pay attention to prices!

If you know how much something usually costs, you'll know if it is a good deal when it's "on sale."

Plan for double portions

Prepare one portion to cook and serve, and the other to freeze for later.