Can You Freeze Food on Its Use-by Date in the UK?

The FSA advises freezing suitable food on or before the use-by date. Do not freeze, cook or eat the product once its use-by date has passed.

United Kingdom · Official food safety sources

Follow suitability and package directions

Not all products should be frozen in the same way. Check the original packaging and freeze promptly while the date is still valid.

Label what goes into the freezer

Write the product name and freezing date. A future freezer quality window is not a substitute for safe handling before freezing.

After defrosting, apply separate instructions

A thawed item may need to be used within 24 hours and could have specific manufacturer directions. Freezing is not a way to rescue food that was already unsafe.

← More UK storage guides

Official UK sources: FSA — Best-before and use-by dates ↗ · FSA — Chilling, freezing and defrosting ↗