• Stocking up on foods or saving left-over food can be economical, but food stored improperly can result in waste or even illness. If you want to keep extra food on hand or want to store left-over food for later consumption, there are some tips you can use to help you avoid hazards caused by improper food storage.
  
  

Freezing

• Freeze foods whenever possible. Freezing foods will keep them fresh longer. More foods can be stored in the freezer than most people think. Whipping cream, nuts and pudding are among these foods. Also, cooking extra when you make a dinner and freezing the leftovers will keep the leftovers fresh and give you quick, almost-ready-to-eat meals in the future. When freezing foods, put them in airtight containers and make sure the seal is good to avoid freezer burn.
  
  

Pantry Organization

• Pantry and storage space is often an issue that prevents people from purchasing in quantity, which can save money. With a little organizing, you can make more pantry space than you already have. Purchase airtight containers in a variety of sizes and shapes and remove dry foods from their store containers. Many boxed foods take up more space than is necessary. Place dry foods in labeled (item name and purchase date) airtight containers and store them neatly in your pantry in an organized fashion to make more space for stocking up when a bargain hits the store. Use opaque containers for storage when food might be exposed to sunlight.
  
  

Rotation

• Practice rotating foods you've stocked up on to ensure you always use the older of the stock first. This will help ensure your foods are fresher when you get to them. When you purchase more of an item from the store, put those items at the rear of your current stock, not in front.
  
  

Be Practical

• Don't buy foods your family doesn't eat. Avoid stocking up on basic ingredients such as wheat, flour, oats and other supplies you get from other elements of your diet. Look at your family's menu and make a list of items you use on a regular basis. Stock up and store those foods. They go faster and don't have a chance to get stale.