Shrink Bag Storage: Do’s and Don’ts for Best Results and How to Store Your Poultry and Produce Safely After Packaging

Shrink bags are one of the most effective tools for preserving poultry and produce — especially when you want to maintain quality, avoid freezer burn, and store food for the long haul. But did you know that how you store your shrink-bagged items matters just as much as how you package them?

In this guide, we’re breaking down the top storage do’s and don’ts so your hard work stays safe, tasty, and freezer-burn-free.

DO: Freeze Your Items Quickly After Shrinking

Once your poultry or produce is sealed and shrunk, don’t wait too long to transfer it to the freezer. The sooner you freeze it, the better the results.

Why it matters: Shrink bags protect against air exposure, but only once the item is properly chilled and frozen. Delays can result in bacterial growth or moisture buildup.

DON’T: Freeze Items That Are Still Warm

Freezing warm or steaming products in shrink bags traps moisture inside the bag, which can lead to frost, soggy texture, or even early spoilage.

What to do instead: Allow poultry or veggies to fully chill in an ice bath or refrigerator before sealing and freezing.

DO: Store Shrink-Bagged Items Flat

Lay shrink-wrapped poultry or produce flat in your freezer while they harden. This makes stacking and organizing easier later — and helps prevent bent or oddly-shaped packages.

DON’T: Overcrowd Your Freezer

When you add too many items at once, you slow down the freezing process. This can lead to uneven freezing and possible spoilage.

Instead: Freeze items in smaller batches if needed. Give space around each bag for air to circulate and help everything freeze evenly.

DO: Label Everything

Shrink bags are easy to write on or label — take advantage of it! Use permanent markers or freezer-safe labels to mark:

• Date processed

• Bird weight

• Type of product (e.g., whole chicken, thighs, carrots, etc.)

This is especially helpful if you're selling poultry or prepping meals ahead.

DON’T: Skip Checking Your Freezer Temp

Your freezer should always stay at or below 0°F. Anything warmer puts your shrink-wrapped goods at risk of spoilage or shortened shelf life.

Tip: Consider adding a thermometer inside your chest or upright freezer for easy monitoring.

DO: Use the Right Bag Size for Better Storage

Using the correct size shrink bag means a tighter fit, less air, and easier stacking — all of which help your freezer stay organized and efficient.

Find Your Shrink Bags Size Here

Shrink bags are an easy, affordable way to keep your poultry and produce fresher longer — but proper storage makes all the difference. By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you’ll protect your food, avoid waste, and stay organized all season long.