Cooking & Thawing Questions

  • Q. How long can my meals stay stored in the freezer?
  • Q. Do I really need a crock-pot to prepare some of the meals?
  • Q. How long will it take for my meals to defrost?
  • Q. What is the correct method for defrosting my meals?
  • Q. How long can my meals stay defrosted in the refrigerator?
  • Q. Can I refreeze an entree after it has defrosted if I decide not to cook it right away?
  • Q. How long can my meals stay stored in the freezer?

    A.  It is recommended that you use your meals within three months of freezing.


    Q. Do I really need a crock-pot to prepare some of the meals?

    A.  Crock-pots are wonderful, easy to use and inexpensive.  Some menu items just don't turn out as well with other cooking methods.


    Q. How long will it take for my meals to defrost? A.  Once frozen, the typical full size entree will require approximately 24-48 hours in your refrigerator to thaw completely.  This varies just as fridge temperatures do.

    Q. What is the correct method for defrosting my meals? A.  The proper way to defrost anything is to leave it in your refrigerator for the 24 hours or so it will take to thoroughly defrost.  Items should not be thawed by leaving them on the kitchen counter as this method allows for germs and spoilage.

    Q. How long can my meals stay defrosted in the refrigerator? A.  Thawed entrees should be cooked within two days of defrosting, however, it is recommended that seafood items be eaten within one day for best results and freshness.

    Q. Can I refreeze an entree after it has defrosted if I decide not to cook it right away? A.  Once a meal is defrosted, it is not recommended, from a food safety standpoint, that it be re-frozen.  In this situation, you should cook the dish according to the cooking instructions on the label and freeze the cooked entree to eat at a later date.