The Benefits of Using Freezer Bag

It feels so good to be out in nature, doesn’t it? The sights, the sounds… or the stillness… time with friends, or time alone… that’s what we love about getting outdoors, right? But what about cooking in the outdoors? How do we make tasty meals that can give us the energy we need without being too much of a hassle or time consumer? In addition to getting on the trail, I love to cook and eat! Meals and snacks are always an important part of my trips. Food helps keeps us warm, energized and able to make smart decisions. Good food is an essential part of any adventure trip.

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Over the years I’ve experimented with a variety of food planning and preparation methods for my trips. One of my favorite methods of outdoor cooking is called freezer bag cooking. If you’ve been looking for a simple food preparation method to take the hassle out of cooking, but still gives you with warm food for your belly, you’re going to love freezer bag cooking. It is a simple way to prepare filling and lightweight food for any type of outdoor adventure. Anyone can use this method, too! All you have to is boil water to make your meal. Below you’ll find all the basics you’ll need to get you started as a freezer bag chef!

Benefits of freezer bag cooking

It’s Simple…

Freezer bag cooking has a lot of benefits! Overall it is very simple. When you get ready to eat, you simply need to boil water. There is little prep or clean up required at meal time. All the work (which is minimal) can be done in your home kitchen. Plus ingredients can be purchased online, at your local store or dehydrated yourself.

It’s Lightweight…

This method is a favorite among backpackers, especially ultralight backpackers, such as my husband. The required supplies are lightweight and squishable, making them easy to pack without taking up a lot of space or weight in your pack . You just need an insulated cloth cozy, a small stove with fuel and a small pot to boil water.

One apple weighs about 7 oz before dehydrated, and about 1 oz after most of the water is removed. Your back will thank you!

The food is even lightweight because it is dehydrated. Water is heavy, we all know that, so even when it is in our food, it adds a bit of weight to our pack. Carrying dehydrated food is a lighter form of food. For example apples are 84% water. Let’s grab one of the apples out of my fruit bowl and see what it weighs. My Costco fuji apple weighs in today at 7 ounces, which means about 5.9 ounces of that apple is water. Once dehydrated, most of that water weight will be gone, making the meals I pack around less of a load on my back. I’ve found this post on dehydration weight testing from Healthy Canning to be a really helpful reference.

It frees up time…

This method also lets you multitask while your food cooks. The way it frees up time during a trip is by far one of my favorite benefits to freezer bag cooking. Many of my trips are just for a weekend, taking out after work on Friday and getting in to camp at dusk. With little light I want to move quickly to get camp set up, but I also want to eat before it gets too late or I get too hangry – yes that totally happens – aka a bit angry due to being too hungry! Freezer bag cooking lets me set up camp while my meal cooks. It is a win-win proposition for sure! I get a warm meal in my belly before bed, and I get my home away from home set up while my meal “cooks”.

And it’s fun!

I also love this method because it is a fun and unique way to cook. Cozies come in a variety of fun patterns, letting you customize your cook set. Freezer bag cooking reminds me of childhood when I got those cool little pills that when soaked in water would expand into fun object. (Not part of your childhood? Its not too late – just search for “water growing toys” online and you’ll find a bit of my past.) Hot water can do amazing things and this method harnesses that power for us.

The freezer bag method

Freezer bag cooking is aptly named. The method includes placing all, or almost all, needed dehydrated ingredients into a single quart sized freezer bag. Nearly boiling water is poured into the freezer bag at meal time to re-hydrate the food. While the food re-hydrates, the freezer bag is placed in an insulated cloth cozy to retain heat introduced by the boiling water.

Chopping wood is a great use of “cooking” time!

Most meals will take 10-15 minutes of soaking time to “cook” and re-hydrate and without a cozy a lot of the heat from the water will be lost, meaning your meal will take longer to re-hydrate and be luke-warm by the time its ready to eat. Yuck! After adding in the hot water, you just seal up the freezer bag and place it in the cozy while you wait the allotted time and do whatever else you please. Maybe you set up camp, read a book, chop firewood, enjoy the view or take a quick nap while your food cooks.

Once the meal is ready you simply eat it out of the bag. I often keep the freezer bag in my cozy to eat. This protects my hands from the hot food and keeps them toasty warm in the winter. I use a long-handled utensil to keep my fingers clean, especially while digging down into the bottom of your bag. Sometimes that’s where the best bites hide so don’t leave them behind! The MSR fold-able spork is my favorite utensil to use. It is light, small in size once folded and the spork lets me stab or break up food better than a spoon, meaning I rarely need to use my knife to eat

Where to find freezer bag cooking recipes

Sarah Kirkconnell has created hundreds of meal recipes that can be cooked with this method. Her website is www.trailcooking.com and she has a great overview/introduction to the method as well. She created many of the recipes we use. We shared three of our favorites in an earlier post, 3 Simple Freezer Bag Recipes.

You can find dehydrated ingredients at some stores in their bulk or emergency preparedness section, including Walmart. They are also easy to find online with a simple Google search. One vendor we suggest is Harmony House. Please note “dried” ingredients may not re-hydrate the same way as “dehydrated” ingredients.

You can also dehydrate your own ingredients, which is something we have started trying. So far we have dehydrated zucchini, apples, pears and mangoes with success. We dehydrate using a 9-row Excalibur dehydrator, graciously on loan to us from a family member. Good dehydrators can be a bit pricey so we want you to know that many items can also be dehydrated in your oven. Although we haven’t tried them all yet, here are 8 easy dehydration methods that work.

Prepackaged meal options

Some people prefer to buy prepackaged dehydrated meals and our cozies work great for using these. These options offer convenience and can save time during your planning and preparation phase. One vendor of gourmet pre-made meals we suggest is Outdoor Pantry. You can find many pre-made meals at Walmart and outdoor stores such as REI as well. Mountain House is a common brand you’ll find at these larger retailers.

Just like other pre-made meals, these prepackaged options may include added ingredients and preservatives. They can also be a bit costly, ranging from about $10-15 per meal for two people. Portions are often hearty, which makes sense if you are hiking all day long.

For those with smaller appetites or simply not requiring as many calories these large prepackaged meals may result in food waste. By making your own freezer bag meals you can know exactly what you are eating, control your portion size and cut your food budget, especially if you buy dehydrated ingredients in bulk (as they are often sold).

Environmental considerations for freezer bag cooking

Many people are concerned about the impact on the environment with this method, including us. You are using freezer bags so doesn’t that create more trash? Yes and no. Making your own freezer bag meals can reduce packaging waste, which is great while on the trail. A freezer bag can be reused for an additional meal or for collecting trash. We often only use our bags once and then use them to pack out bathroom trash. I know some hikers pack all empty freezer bags back home with them to be refilled for future adventures. As long as the bags aren’t damaged and will hold liquid again, you should be good to go!

Another option is to replace quart freezer bags with longer lasting food-grade safe silicone bags. A silicone bag should last you years of reusable use, far beyond what any plastic freezer bag could handle. Changing to silicone bags includes a bit of an upfront investment that is well worth it over time! These bags are also heavier than a disposable freezer bag, which is a downside.

We are currently trying out a few different versions of reusable bags to find a set that fits our needs and preferences. Originally we liked the idea of silicone bag made by Honeycomb because of their ability to stand up with food inside. They are the heaviest and bulkiest option though weighing 4.9 ounces each. Re(zip) makes a lighter and simpler bag out of PEVA, weighting 0.9 ounces each. We will be experimenting with these bags this spring and summer in the hopes of finding the right reusable option for our needs. The average freezer bag weighs about 0.2 ounces so you can see the obvious weight difference.  

How Freezer Bags Work

Freezer bags are an essential tool for efficient and safe food storage, particularly for extending the freshness and usability of perishable goods in freezing conditions. These specialized bags are designed to withstand extreme cold without becoming brittle or losing their integrity, which makes them distinct from regular storage bags. Understanding the design and functionality of freezer bags is crucial for their effective use, ensuring that food remains well-preserved and protected against common storage issues like freezer burn and odor contamination.

Material

Freezer bags are crafted from a heavy-duty plastic that is thicker and more resilient than the material used in standard storage bags. This robust construction serves several important functions:

• Barrier against moisture: The thick plastic acts as an effective barrier, preventing moisture from entering or exiting the bag. This is essential in maintaining the food's natural moisture level, crucial for texture and taste.
• Protection against air: By keeping air out, these bags help minimize the oxygen exposure that can lead to the oxidative spoilage of food.
• Reduction of freezer burn: The sturdy material guards against freezer burn, a common problem that occurs when air reaches the food's surface, leading to dehydration and oxidation.

Seal

The seal of a freezer bag is designed to provide an airtight closure, which plays a pivotal role in preserving the quality and safety of the food stored within:

• Airtight closure: The most common types of seals on freezer bags include a double-lock or zipper mechanism. These seals are engineered to lock tightly, preventing any air from entering or escaping once the bag is closed.
• Preservation of freshness: An effective seal helps maintain the food's freshness by securing its natural flavors, textures, and nutrients from the adverse effects of oxygen and odor contamination.
• Protection from contamination: Besides keeping the food fresh, the seal also protects it from odors and tastes from other foods stored in the freezer, which can migrate and alter the flavor of unprotected items.

Benefits of Using Freezer Bags

Freezer bags provide numerous benefits for home food storage, acting as an essential tool for anyone looking to preserve the quality and longevity of their food in the freezer. These bags are not only effective in maintaining the freshness and nutritional integrity of food but also enhance the overall organization and efficiency of freezer space management.

Food Preservation

The primary purpose of freezer bags is to enhance the preservation of food by providing a superior barrier against external factors that lead to spoilage:

• Locking out air and moisture: The airtight seal and moisture-resistant material of freezer bags prevent air and humidity from affecting the food, which are major factors in the degradation of food quality.
• Maintaining taste and texture: By preventing freezer burn and dehydration, freezer bags help maintain the original taste and texture of the food.
• Preserving nutritional value: Effective sealing helps in retaining the vitamins and minerals in food, which might otherwise degrade when exposed to air.

Versatility

Freezer bags are exceptionally versatile, suitable for a wide variety of food items, which makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen:

• Diverse food storage: Whether it's raw meats, fresh vegetables, fruits, or prepared meals, freezer bags can handle it all effectively.
• Storing liquids safely: Their robust build and secure sealing make them ideal for storing liquids like soups and sauces without the risk of leaks.
• Reusability: Many freezer bags are designed to be reusable, offering an eco-friendly storage option for a variety of uses.

Space Efficiency

One of the standout features of freezer bags is their contribution to efficient use of freezer space:

• Flexible storage solutions: Their pliable nature allows them to be shaped around other items or flattened, maximizing space utilization.
• Stackable design: Freezer bags can be neatly stacked one on top of another, which optimizes vertical space and helps maintain an organized freezer.
• Improved accessibility and management: With the ability to label and stack freezer bags, they enhance the overall accessibility and management of frozen goods, making it easier to locate and rotate stock as needed.

Tips for Using Freezer Bags

To maximize the benefits of freezer bags and ensure the highest quality of food preservation, it is important to use these bags effectively. Here are some practical tips to enhance your food storage routine, reduce waste, and maintain the optimal freshness and quality of your frozen goods.

Portion Control

Managing food portions when using freezer bags can enhance their convenience and efficiency:

• Individual servings: By freezing food in portion-sized amounts, you can defrost exactly what you need for a meal, preventing the need to thaw and refreeze leftovers.
• Reduces waste: This method also helps in reducing food waste, as you only thaw what you will use.
• Simplifies meal planning: Having pre-portioned meals or ingredients ready in the freezer makes meal preparation quicker and more efficient.

Label Clearly

Proper labeling is crucial for effective freezer management and can greatly enhance the usability of stored food:

• Date and contents: Use a permanent marker to write the date of freezing and the contents on each bag. This practice helps in tracking how long items have been stored and in identifying them easily.
• Inventory management: Clear labeling facilitates the rotation of older food items to the front, ensuring they are used before newer additions, which helps maintain the freshness and quality of all stored foods.
• Prevents confusion: Accurate labels prevent the common issue of mistaking one item for another, such as confusing different types of broths or purees.

Remove Air

Removing excess air from freezer bags before sealing them is a key step in preserving the quality of food:

• Minimizes oxygen exposure: Less air in the bag reduces the amount of oxygen that can interact with the food, which helps prevent oxidative changes and freezer burn.
• Enhances seal effectiveness: A tighter seal is achieved when excess air is removed, which further protects against contaminants and odors from the freezer environment.
• Compact storage: Bags with less air are flatter and more compact, making them easier to stack and organize within the freezer.

Maintaining Food Quality with Freezer Bags

Proper usage of freezer bags is key to maintaining the quality of frozen foods. By following best practices, you can ensure that your food remains safe, nutritious, and flavorful even after extended periods in the freezer. These tips are specifically aimed at addressing common issues such as freezer burn and unwanted texture changes, which can affect the quality of frozen goods.

Avoid Overfilling

It's important to leave some space at the top of the bag when freezing liquids or semi-liquids to account for expansion:

• Allow for expansion: Liquids expand when frozen, so leaving space at the top of the bag prevents the bag from bursting or leaking.
• Prevents deformation of other items: Properly filled bags maintain a uniform shape, making stacking and storage more efficient.
• Ensures even freezing: Adequate space allows for better air circulation around the bag, which contributes to more uniform freezing and thus better food quality.

Double Bag for Extra Protection

Double bagging can be a useful strategy for certain types of food or for longer storage periods:

• Enhanced barrier against elements: An extra layer of plastic adds additional protection against air and moisture, which are the main culprits behind freezer burn.
• Ideal for sensitive items: Foods like baked goods, meats, and seafood that are more susceptible to texture and flavor loss benefit from double bagging.
• Long-term storage: For items you intend to store in the freezer for many months, double bagging can extend freshness and edibility.

Thawing

Proper thawing is crucial in maintaining the quality of frozen food once it is ready to be used:

• Retain moisture: Thawing food in its original freezer bag helps to keep moisture contained, preserving the texture and flavor of the food.
• Prevent bacterial growth: Slow thawing in the refrigerator or safely in a cold water bath minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination, which is more likely at warmer temperatures.
• Ease of preparation: Keeping the food in the freezer bag during thawing makes it easier to manage any liquids that may be released, keeping your refrigerator clean and hassle-free.

Common Uses for Freezer Bags

Freezer bags are incredibly versatile, suited for a variety of storage needs. Their ability to preserve food quality makes them an invaluable resource in any kitchen. From bulk shopping to meal prepping, these bags can handle various tasks, simplifying the process of storing food effectively and efficiently.

Bulk Purchases

Using freezer bags to divide and store bulk purchases can have several advantages:

• Economic savings: Buying in bulk is often more economical. Using freezer bags to portion and freeze these purchases can translate to significant savings.
• Prevent spoilage: By freezing excess portions, you reduce the risk of spoilage and waste.
• Ready-to-use portions: Having meal-sized portions available makes daily meal preparation quicker and easier, as you can defrost exactly what you need.

Meal Prep

Meal prepping is a time-saving strategy perfectly complemented by the use of freezer bags:

• Advance preparation: Prepare entire meals or meal components ahead of time, freeze them in bags, and simply reheat as needed.
• Diet management: Portion control is easier when meals are pre-prepared, aiding in dietary adherence and reducing the temptation to eat out.
• Variety and convenience: Freeze a variety of meals to keep your diet interesting and reduce cooking time during busy weekdays.

Seasonal Harvests

Freezer bags are excellent for preserving the freshness and nutritional value of garden harvests or seasonal produce:

• Extend freshness: Freezing fruits and vegetables at their peak ripeness helps retain their flavor and nutritional content.
• Year-round enjoyment: Enjoy seasonal produce throughout the year, not just when it's in season.
• Reduce food waste: Freezing surplus fruits and vegetables ensures that the bounty of your garden or local market doesn't go to waste.

Choosing the Right Freezer Bag

Selecting the right freezer bag is crucial to ensure effective food storage that meets your specific needs. From the size and durability to environmental impact, each factor plays a key role in optimizing your food preservation practices. Here are some essential considerations to help you choose the best freezer bag for your household.

Size and Volume

Choosing the appropriate size and volume of freezer bags is essential for efficient storage:

• Match to storage needs: Select a size that fits the amount of food you typically freeze, whether it's small servings or bulk items.
• Space considerations: Consider how much freezer space you have; larger bags require more space, whereas smaller bags can be more flexible in placement.
• Efficiency: Using the right size bag minimizes waste and ensures that you're not using a larger bag than necessary, which can also save on costs.

Brand and Quality

The reliability of freezer bags can vary between brands, so choosing the right one is important:

• Durability: Look for brands that are known for their strength and durability to avoid tears or leaks.
• Seal quality: High-quality seals are crucial to prevent air from entering and causing freezer burn.
• Customer reviews: Check reviews to see how various brands stack up in real-world usage, which can provide insights beyond manufacturer claims.

Eco-Friendly Options

As environmental concerns grow, considering eco-friendly options for freezer bags can make a significant difference:

• Reusable bags: Opt for bags that can be reused, reducing plastic waste and offering a more sustainable option.
• Biodegradable materials: Some freezer bags are made from materials that biodegrade more quickly than traditional plastics.
• Recyclable options: Look for freezer bags that can be recycled to minimize environmental impact further.

Freezer bags play a crucial role in the modern kitchen by enhancing food preservation, reducing waste, and aiding in meal planning. They help ensure that food stays fresh, flavorful, and nutritious over time. By selecting the right freezer bags and utilizing them effectively, homeowners can greatly improve the efficiency and organization of their food storage.