A freezer can turn into a holding place for forgotten purchases, unfinished ingredients and meals that no longer fit anyone's plans. A new Delish freezer cleanout guide, drawing on expert advice, identifies seven items worth reconsidering before they take up more space.
The purpose of a cleanout is not to discard food automatically. Start by taking stock of what is inside, grouping similar products together and separating anything that has been sitting untouched from the ingredients you regularly use.
For home cooks, the useful question is practical: will this item realistically become part of a future breakfast, dinner or baking project? Check the package information and storage guidance before deciding whether to keep it, use it soon or remove it from the freezer.
Making this a regular pre-shopping habit can also make meal planning simpler. A clearer freezer helps reveal ingredients for an impromptu supper and leaves room for food you genuinely expect to cook.