Michigan
State University Extension
Preserving
Food Safely - 01600507
10/13/97
Pack food and syrup cold into containers. Having
materials decrease freezing time and helps retain natural
color, flavor and texture of food.
When food is packed in bags, press air out of the unfilled
part of the bag. Press firmly to prevent air from getting
back in. Seal immediately.
Allow ample headspace. With only a few exceptions,
allowance for headspace is needed between packed food and
closure because food expands as it freezes. Follow
directions given in the recipe for appropriate amount of
headspace needed for a given fruit or vegetable.
Keep sealing edges free from moisture or food so that a
good closure can be made. Seal carefully.
Label packages plainly. Include name of food, date it was
packed, and type of pack if food is packed in more than one
form.