Only put plastics in the freezer if they have a freezer-safe label. Single use containers, such as ice cream or milk cartons, should be avoided for freezer use. According to MSU Extension, use containers in the freezer that are moisture-vapor resistant, leak proof, and easy to seal.
- Plastic: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) are generally safe. Avoid thin, flimsy plastics. - Silicone: Food-grade silicone is typically freezer safe. Labeling: Check for any labels or symbols indicating that the container is freezer safe. Many manufacturers will specify this on the packaging.
Plastic baskets are suitable to use in freezers but make sure they're made with a sturdy material so they don't crack if you put something heavy in them. Search for containers designed specifically for fridge and freezer use, such as stackable acrylic bins.
By far, glass jars are the best containers for freezing food. Glass is impermeable, meaning no staining or stink. Glass also won't leach toxins into your food like plastic does, plus it's 100 percent recyclable (unlike plastic, which is super complicated to recycle).
Safe to use in the microwave, freezer and dishwasher, the TakeAlongs™ lid design allows you to worry about one less thing. If you hear the click, you know your seal is secure. To keep your new containers performing at their best, please read the following: Remove label and wash before use.
Only put plastics in the freezer if they have a freezer-safe label. Single use containers, such as ice cream or milk cartons, should be avoided for freezer use. According to MSU Extension, use containers in the freezer that are moisture-vapor resistant, leak proof, and easy to seal.
TakeAlongs are the best of both worlds: lightweight enough to bring on your office commute or to potlucks and picnics, yet durable enough to hold up to the dishwasher, freezer, and microwave.
After testing dozens of sets for our guide to the best food storage containers, we recommend the Pyrex 18-Piece Simply Store Food Storage Set. These durable tempered-glass containers stack well and won't pick up stains or smells. They're also safe to use in the oven, as well as in the freezer and dishwasher.
Leaching is when chemicals such as BPA are transferred from the plastic to food. It is commonly transferred through changes in temperature. For example, when you microwave food, if you are using plastic, the chemicals will leach in to your food. Similarly, leaching can also occur if left in the freezer.
Our Ziploc® products are suitable for food contact use for microwave defrosting and reheating, room temperature, refrigeration, and freezing. Remember, it's always important to follow each product's usage instructions. Furthermore, Ziploc® brand products are made in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE plastic) Low-density polyethylene (LDPE plastic) Polyethylene terephthalate (PET/PETE)
Jars with tapered sides or straight sides are freezer safe; shouldered jars are not.
Fridge glass containers are not only useful but also environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic. They provide a healthier option for food storage while being aesthetically pleasing.
If you fill a plastic water bottle completely with water and leave it in the freezer, the expansion of the freezing water can put immense pressure on the bottle. Over time, this pressure may cause the bottle to deform, crack, or worse, explode.
PP (5) is a type of plastic called polypropylene. Because it's light, flexible, and durable, it is turned into a huge variety of different products that you use every day. PP stands for polypropylene, and the (5) denotes the recycling category.
It is safe to freeze meat or poultry directly in its original packaging, however this type of wrap is permeable to air and quality may diminish over time. For prolonged storage, overwrap these packages as you would any food for long-term storage.
The bottom line is, since we don't know exactly what manufacturers use to make each type of plastic, it is best to just assume that the plastic packaging on frozen meals likely has at least some negative health effects if microwaved.
Containers made of PET plastics can release chemicals at a temperature of 25°C and at temperatures of 50°C and above, the leaching of chemicals can occur very rapidly. Food high in fat content should never be heated in plastic as the fat better absorbs chemicals.
It is safe to freeze your soup in plastic containers, so long as they're the right containers. Not all plastics are made equal. Always store food in containers that are made from safe plastics and do not contain polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, or polystyrene.
Regardless of the types of chemicals in a plastic food container, it may not be entirely safe. Plastics break down over time, which means they can potentially release trace amounts of microplastics and whatever chemicals they are made of into the food.
Airtight Seal
Air that sneaks into a container or bag after it's been closed can lead to freezer burn, ice crystals, and dry, leathery food. A container with an airtight seal limits those issues and keeps your frozen food at peak quality.
Whichever chemicals they contain, plastics break down over time and can potentially release trace amounts into food.
Both Zip Lock bags and plastic containers are effective for freezing food, but each has its advantages. Zip Lock bags are more space-efficient and allow for easy removal of excess air, which helps prevent freezer burn. They are ideal for flat, stackable storage.
Can I use Glad® bags, containers and other products in the freezer? All Glad products can be used in the freezer, but we recommend using Glad freezer products for the best protection.
Our borosilicate glass products can be put into freezer and can resist till -40°c.