Tips for Freezing Poultry

• Freeze poultry as soon as possible!
• Always work with clean hands, preparation areas, equipment and utensils.
• Quality can be extended by storing at 0ºF or lower and packaging for frozen storage.
• Choose containers or wraps appropriate for freezing:freezer foil, wrap or bags, plastic freezing containers.
• To prep for freezing:
  • Ideally wrap first in a layer of plastic wrap or freezer paper, then a layer of foil, then store in a freezer bag or plastic container.
  • Multiple layers will help maintain quality and prevent freezer burn.
  • Wrap tightly, pressing out as much air as possible.
• Consider freezing poultry in portions so that you only need to defrost what is immediately needed.
• Clean and sanitize equipment and surfaces after breaking down and packaging poultry.