Introduction
Freezers have become an indispensable appliance in modern homes, serving as a trusty vault for preserving food and extending its shelf life. Whether it’s leftovers from a hearty meal, bulk purchases from the grocery store, or frozen delicacies like ice cream, freezers play a crucial role in minimizing food waste and ensuring a ready supply of ingredients for future culinary adventures. Inside these icy realms, a diverse array of containers and receptacles can be found, each designed to hold and protect different types of food. These containers, often referred to as tubs, come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The variety can sometimes lead to confusion, as people wonder, “What are the tubs in freezers called?” This article aims to unravel the mystery, identifying and naming the most common types of tubs and containers used in freezers, providing valuable insights into their purpose and appropriate usage. Understanding these distinctions can help optimize your freezer space, maintain food quality, and prevent the dreaded phenomenon of freezer burn.
Freezer Storage Containers
The world of freezer storage containers is vast and varied, offering a multitude of options to suit different needs and preferences. These containers, in their essence, are vessels designed to hold food items within the sub-zero environment of a freezer, protecting them from the harsh conditions that can lead to dehydration, freezer burn, and loss of flavor. At the heart of a good freezer storage container lies its ability to maintain a tight seal, effectively preventing the exchange of air and moisture between the container’s interior and the freezer’s environment. This airtight seal is critical in preventing freezer burn, a condition where the surface of food becomes dehydrated and discolored due to ice crystals forming on its surface.
When considering materials, freezer-safe plastic containers are a prevalent choice due to their lightweight nature, durability, and affordability. These containers are typically made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), both of which are considered safe for food storage at low temperatures. However, it’s important to verify that the plastic container is specifically labeled as “freezer-safe,” as some plastics can become brittle and crack under extreme cold.
Glass containers, on the other hand, offer a more robust and inert option for freezer storage. Glass is non-porous, meaning it won’t absorb odors or flavors from the food it contains. This makes glass an excellent choice for storing foods with strong scents, such as garlic or onions. However, not all glass containers are suitable for freezing. It’s crucial to use tempered glass or borosilicate glass, both of which are designed to withstand rapid temperature changes without shattering. Standard glass containers may crack when exposed to the sudden temperature drop of a freezer.
Silicone containers have emerged as a popular alternative in recent years, prized for their flexibility, durability, and ease of cleaning. Silicone is a non-toxic material that’s safe for food contact, and it can withstand a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for both freezing and reheating. Silicone containers are also lightweight and collapsible, making them a space-saving option for freezer storage.
Common Names and Types
Among the myriad of freezer storage containers, certain types stand out as being particularly common and versatile. One of the most widely used categories is simply referred to as “food storage tubs.” These tubs come in various shapes and sizes, typically featuring a snap-on lid that provides an airtight seal. Food storage tubs are ideal for storing leftovers, sauces, soups, stews, and other prepared foods. They can be stacked neatly in the freezer, maximizing storage space and keeping things organized. The versatility of food storage tubs makes them a staple in most kitchens. These tubs are easy to use, wash and reuse.
Another popular type of freezer container is the “ice cream tub.” While the name suggests they are exclusively for ice cream, these tubs can be used to store a variety of frozen desserts and treats. Ice cream tubs are typically made from sturdy plastic or paperboard, and they often have a wide opening for easy scooping. They are also designed to be stackable, making them convenient for storing multiple flavors of ice cream or other frozen treats. The thickness of the tubs are important to prevent the ice cream from melting quickly.
Freezer Drawers
Beyond dedicated containers, many freezers incorporate built-in drawers, which effectively function as larger, integrated tubs.
What are freezer drawers?
Freezer drawers are essentially pull-out compartments within a freezer, designed to provide organized storage for a variety of frozen foods. Unlike fixed shelves, drawers offer easier access to items stored at the back, preventing the need to rummage through stacks of frozen packages. They are typically made of durable plastic or metal and are designed to withstand the cold temperatures of the freezer.
Function of Freezer Drawers
The primary function of freezer drawers is to provide organized and accessible storage for frozen foods. They help to separate different types of items, preventing cross-contamination and making it easier to locate specific products. For example, one drawer might be used for meats, another for vegetables, and another for frozen desserts. This organization not only saves time but also helps to prevent food waste by ensuring that items are not forgotten at the back of the freezer.
Moreover, freezer drawers can also help to maintain a more consistent temperature within the freezer. By preventing items from being piled on top of each other, drawers allow for better air circulation, which can help to prevent freezer burn and keep food fresher for longer. The ease of cleaning freezer drawers helps ensure that you are always consuming the best quality frozen foods available.
Best Practices for Using Freezer Tubs
Using freezer tubs effectively involves more than just throwing food into a container and sticking it in the freezer. To ensure food safety, preserve quality, and maximize freezer space, it’s essential to follow some best practices.
Food Safety Tips
One of the most crucial aspects of using freezer tubs is proper labeling and dating of stored items. Write the name of the food item and the date it was frozen on a label or directly on the container using a permanent marker. This will help you keep track of how long the food has been stored and ensure that you use it before it expires. Food kept frozen for a very long time may not be enjoyable to eat, or could be dangerous to eat if there has been a power failure.
Another important tip is to cool food completely before freezing. Placing hot or warm food directly into the freezer can raise the temperature inside, potentially thawing other items and creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Allow food to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a freezer tub and placing it in the freezer.
Safe thawing methods are equally important. The safest way to thaw frozen food is in the refrigerator, allowing it to thaw slowly and evenly. Avoid thawing food at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth. If you need to thaw food quickly, you can use the microwave or place it in a cold water bath, but be sure to cook it immediately after thawing.
Maximizing Freezer Space
Efficient use of freezer space is essential for storing more food and keeping things organized. Stackable freezer tubs are a great way to maximize vertical space. Look for tubs with flat lids that allow them to be stacked securely without tipping over.
Another space-saving tip is to use freezer-safe bags for storing certain types of food, such as chopped vegetables, fruits, or meat portions. Freezer bags can be laid flat, taking up less space than bulky containers. When filling freezer bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and maximize space efficiency.
Also consider using a freezer inventory to keep track of what’s stored in your freezer. This can be as simple as a list on a piece of paper or a more elaborate spreadsheet. Regularly update the inventory as you add and remove items from the freezer. This will help you avoid buying duplicates and ensure that you use food before it expires. Rotate the containers to make sure food is evenly frozen.
Conclusion
The world of freezer tubs and containers may seem overwhelming at first, but understanding the different types and their proper usage can significantly improve your food storage practices. From the ubiquitous food storage tubs to the convenient ice cream tubs and the integrated functionality of freezer drawers, each type of container serves a specific purpose in preserving food quality and maximizing freezer space.
Remember, choosing the right container is crucial for ensuring food safety and preventing freezer burn. Opt for freezer-safe materials, ensure an airtight seal, and practice proper labeling and dating. By following these guidelines, you can keep your freezer organized, minimize food waste, and enjoy delicious, frozen food whenever you desire. Whether you’re storing leftovers, meal prepping for the week, or stocking up on frozen treats, understanding the nuances of freezer tubs is a valuable asset for any home cook. Consider your specific needs and the types of food you typically store when selecting freezer containers, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of freezer organization. So next time you reach into your freezer, you’ll know exactly what to call those tubs and how best to use them.
