How to Label Your Pantry and Freezer So Food Gets Used

Food gets wasted when you cannot see what you have. A box of pasta hides behind the rice, and a bag of soup sits in the freezer for a year. A few good labels solve most of it. They cost almost nothing and make cooking faster.

Start with a clean-out

Take everything out of one shelf at a time. Check the dates, throw out what is past its date, and wipe the shelf. Group like items together: baking, grains, canned food, snacks. This takes one afternoon and makes labels much more useful.

Label jars and containers

When you pour flour, sugar or rice into a jar, label it. The label should say what it is, and it helps to add the date you filled it or the best before date. Use the same style for every jar, so the shelf looks tidy and is easy to scan. Print labels on plain paper and tape them on with clear tape, or use sticker paper.

Label spices

Spice jars are small, so a short label on the lid or the front is enough. Sort them alphabetically or by use, such as baking spices in one place and savory ones in another. When you can see the names, you will not buy a third jar of cumin.

Freezer labels need a date

A freezer label needs two things: what it is and when it went in. Add a use by date if you can. Write with a permanent marker, and cover paper labels with clear tape so they do not peel in the cold. Put new items at the back and move older ones to the front.

Keep a simple inventory

A list on the fridge or inside a cupboard door tells you what you have. For the freezer, write down each item, the date and the quantity. When you use something, cross it off. Before you shop, take a quick look, and you will buy only what you need.

Habits that help

• Put first in, first out: new food goes at the back.
• Keep a basket for items to use soon.
• Do a short check once a month.
• Freeze bread, berries and leftovers in portions.
• Write the cooking instructions on the freezer label if you made it yourself.

Food safety guidance varies by food type. Follow the package dates and local food safety advice for how long to keep food.

Printable labels

Our Pantry and Freezer Labels include 32 pantry labels, 26 spice labels, freezer labels with date lines, blank sheets and two inventory lists. Try some with the free sample.

You can also browse every free sample on the Free Printables page, or see all digital downloads.

See also: A Week of Meals on One Page: How to Plan and Shop.