How long do frozen entrees last?

How to tell frozen entrees have gone bad

General signs for food purchased frozen, the group USDA lists frozen entrees under.

• Greyish-brown, dry patches on the surface (freezer burn)
• Heavy frost or ice crystals built up inside the package
• Package that feels soft or has clearly thawed and refrozen
• Off smell as soon as the food starts to thaw
• Freezer odour that has soaked into the food itself

More on food purchased frozen. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.

Storage habits that make the difference

Keep the freezer at 0 F (-18 C) or colder, and push older items to the front so they get used first. Wrap or repackage anything with damaged packaging to limit air exposure. Thaw in the fridge, not on the counter, and cook or use thawed food within a day or two.