How long you can store frozen food depends on the freezer’s rating, which ranges from 1-star to 4-star. The higher the rating, the colder the freezer and the longer you can store food safely.
- 1-star ice box – operates at a minimum temperature of -6 degrees Celsius
-6 degrees Celsius is perfect for making ice cubes and is sufficiently cold to keep food for up to 3 - 5 days.
- 2-star ice box – operates at a minimum temperature of -12 degrees Celsius
-12 degrees Celsius stores food for up to one month.
- 3-star ice box – operates at a minimum temperature of -18 degrees Celsius
-18 degrees Celsius will keep food safe for up to three months.
- 4-star freezer – operates at a minimum temperature of -18 degrees Celsius
-18 degrees Celsius will keep food safe for three months or longer.
Four rating stars means that the compartment provides the ideal conditions for freezing down fresh and pre-cooked foods. Most frozen food in supermarkets is clearly marked to show how long it can be kept.
Most frozen food in supermarkets is clearly marked to show how long it can be kept. That combined with the star codes gives you an easy way to make sure that your frozen food is safe to eat. When you buy chilled and frozen food, put it in to your freezer as soon as possible. Freezers run most efficiently when full and in use. If you see your freezer merely as a place to store ice cream and the occasional packet of peas, use the icebox on the top of your refrigerator instead.
