How to safely share and receive frozen food

(Please note that FWHs based in the Republic of Ireland are not allowed to freeze food they collect.)

Freezing acts as a ‘pause button’ on the shelf life of food. So, if the food is suitable for freezing, it’s a great way to help more food get redistributed. 

When freezing food

• Only freeze items that are "suitable for freezing"
  • Look out for the ❄️ instructions on the label
  • Whole ingredients (fruit, veg, meat, fish) will not be labelled and can be frozen
• Demonstrate the date that the food was frozen.
• For food carrying a ‘Use By’ date, demonstrate that the freezing took place before midnight of the use-by date.
  • Re-label this food with a new 'Best Before' date which will be the day that it is frozen.
  • Store food frozen for up to 1 month.
• Ensure that the food is in an acceptable condition and suitable for freezing (e.g. as indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions).
• Ensure the food is frozen all the way through to the core.
• Supply information relating to the food and its freezing to the requester – including information about when the product was frozen and instructions for defrosting and cooking

When receiving frozen food

• Once received, frozen food can be in transit for 1.5 hours and should be thawed in the refrigerator until completely defrosted and used within 24 hours.
• Follow manufacturer's cooking instructions if available

Source: WRAP redistribution & labelling