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Can You Keep Frozen Microwave Meals in the Fridge

Can You Keep Frozen Microwave Meals in the Fridge?

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Last Updated on May 22, 2023 by Lauren Beck

Like many, you likely stock your freezer with frozen microwave meals for those no-cooking nights.

But what if you need fridge space? Can you keep frozen microwave meals in the fridge? Yes, you can. Thaw them completely before reheating them to avoid dryness. Increase reheating time by about 50%.

Also, check expiration dates, as most will stay good for 3-4 days in the fridge. Plan accordingly to enjoy them within a few days.

Here are a few risks to keep in mind if you’re planning on storing your frozen microwave meals in the fridge:

  1. The quality of the food can decline.
  2. The texture of the food can change.
  3. The flavor of the food can change.
  4. The nutrients in the food can be lost.
  5. The food can become unsafe to eat.

Overall, it’s best to eat your frozen microwave meals within the timeframe recommended by the manufacturer.

But if you need to store them in the fridge, be sure to thaw them completely and increase the reheating time. And always check the expiration date before eating any frozen food.

Are Frozen Microwave Meals Safe Once They’ve Been In The Fridge?

Yes, frozen microwave meals are safe to eat once they’ve been in the fridge. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

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  • First, it’s important to thaw the meal completely before reheating it. If you try to reheat a frozen meal, it can end up being dry and rubbery.
  • Second, you’ll need to increase the reheating time by about 50%. So if the instructions on your meal say to reheat for 2 minutes, you’ll need to reheat for 3 minutes if it’s coming from the fridge.
  • Finally, be sure to check the expiration date on your frozen meals. Even though they can be stored in the fridge, they won’t last forever. Most frozen meals will be in the fridge for 3-4 days.

So if you plan on keeping your meals in the fridge, ensure you’ll be able to eat them all within a few days.

Can You Refreeze and Reheat a Leftover Frozen Microwave Meal?

No, you should not refreeze and reheat a leftover frozen microwave meal. Frozen microwave meal are not meant to be reheated more than once.

Reheating them can cause the food to become dry, rubbery, and less flavorful. It can also cause the loss of nutrients.

If you have leftovers from a frozen microwave meal, it’s best to eat them within 3-4 days. After that, they should be thrown out.

How Do I Know if My Frozen Microwave Meal Has Gone Bad?

lasagna in an aluminum tray

Here are a few signs that your frozen microwave meal has gone bad [1]:

  • The expiration date has passed.
  • The color or texture of the food has changed.
  • The food has an off smell.
  • The food tastes strange.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw out the food and not eat it. Eating spoiled food can cause food poisoning, which can be very dangerous.

Can You Reheat a Frozen Meal That Has Been Thawed and Stored After Cooking?

Yes, you can reheat a frozen meal that has been thawed and stored after cooking. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • The food will not be as good as it was when it was first cooked. The texture and flavor will change and it may not taste as good.
  • You need to make sure that the food is reheated all the way through. Otherwise, it can be dangerous to eat.
  • You should only reheat the food once.

Does a Frozen Meal Lose Flavor if It Has Been Stored in the Fridge?

A frozen meal can lose flavor if it has been stored in the fridge. This is because the flavors will start to change and mix together after a while.

If you want to keep the flavor of your frozen meal, it’s best to eat it within 3-4 days. After that, it may not taste as good.

Conclusion

While storing frozen microwave meals in the fridge is possible, it’s crucial to consider the associated risks. The food’s quality may diminish, altering its texture, flavor, and nutritional value.

Moreover, improper storage can render the food unsafe to consume. When opting to refrigerate frozen microwave meals, ensure thorough thawing and adjust reheating time accordingly. And never overlook the importance of checking expiration dates before indulging in any frozen fare.

Safeguard both your culinary experience and well-being through informed decisions and mindful practices.

Reference:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/can-you-eat-frozen-food-past-expiration-date
Lauren Beck
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