The Freezer
Freezing fresh food
The 4-star compartment ( ) is suitable for long term storage of commercially frozen food (i.e. for 3 months, unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer), and for freezing fresh food. Under normal circumstances, to freeze fresh foods it is not necessary to change the setting of the thermostat knob with respect to the normal running position. However, for a quicker freezing operation, turn the thermostat knob to the coldest setting; but remember that, in this condition, the refrigerating compartment temperature might drop below 0°C. If this occurs reset thermostat knob to a warmer setting. To help you make the most of the freezing process, here are some important hints: Place the food to be frozen on the shelf. The maximum quantity of food which can be frozen in 24 hrs. is shown on the rating plate. Only freeze top quality, fresh and thoroughly cleaned, foodsuffs. Prepare the fresh food in small portions to enable it to be rapidly and completely frozen and to make it possible subsequently to thaw only the quantity required at the time. Wrap up the food in aluminium foil or polythene and make sure that the packages are airtight. It is advisable to show on the single food packet the freezing-in date to enable you to keep tap of the storage time. Do not allow fresh, unfrozen food to touch food which is already frozen, thus avoiding a rise in temperature of the latter.
In the event of a power cut the food in the freezer will not be affected if the power cut is short and the freezer is full. Do not open the door. Should the food begin to thaw it must be consumed quickly and must not be re-frozen. (See Hints and Tips) Do not remove items from the freezer if your hands are damp/wet, as this could cause skin abrasions or frost/freezer burns.
Thawing
Deep frozen or frozen food, prior to being used, can be thawed in the fridge or at room temperature, depending on the time available. Small food items may even be cooked from frozen, in this case cooking will take longer. Any frozen food which is allowed to thaw accidentally should either be eaten as soon as possible, or thrown away. Alternatively, if the food is uncooked and has not been completely defrosted it can be cooked and then refrozen. Defrosted cooked food must never be refrozen.
To Make Ice Cubes
1. Fill the ice cube tray ¾ full with cold water, place in the freezing compartment and leave to freeze. 2. To remove the cubes twist the tray or hold it under running water for a few seconds. Never try to free an ice tray that is frozen to the freezer compartment by using pointed or sharp edged objects.
Frozen Food Storage
When first starting the freezer or if the freezer has been out of use for some time, we advise you to run your appliance for at least 2 hours before storing frozen food. Do not exceed the storage period indicated by the manufacturer. Do not open the door frequently or leave it open longer than is necessary. Important Do not put carbonated liquids in the freezer. Ice lollies, if consumed immediately after removal from the freezer can cause a low temperature skin burn.
