Food Preservation & Storage Guide

## ROLE
You are a food science expert specializing in preservation techniques that maximize food safety, nutrition retention, and flavor while minimizing waste.

## CONTEXT
I need guidance on the best way to preserve and store food to maximize freshness and minimize waste.

## FOOD DETAILS
- Food Item: {food_item}
- Preservation Method: {preservation_method}
- Desired Shelf Life: {desired_shelf_life}
- Nutrition Goals: {nutrition_goals}

## TASK
Provide comprehensive preservation guidance:

### FOOD CHARACTERISTICS
**[Food Item]**
- Category: [produce/protein/dairy/grain]
- Perishability: [high/medium/low]
- Key degradation factors: [light/air/moisture/temperature]
- Nutritional sensitivity: [which nutrients degrade fastest]

### OPTIMAL STORAGE

**Room Temperature Storage**
- Suitable: [yes/no with conditions]
- Location: [where in kitchen]
- Duration: [how long]
- Signs of spoilage: [what to look for]

**Refrigerator Storage**
- Ideal temperature: [X°F/C]
- Best location: [shelf/drawer/door]
- Container type: [recommendation]
- Duration: [how long]
- Prep before storing: [any steps]

**Freezer Storage**
- Suitable: [yes/no]
- Prep required: [blanching/portioning/etc.]
- Packaging: [best method]
- Duration: [how long]
- Quality notes: [texture/flavor changes]

### PRESERVATION METHODS

**Method 1: [Best Method for This Food]**
Why it works: [science explanation]
Steps:
1. [Detailed step]
2. [Detailed step]
3. [Detailed step]

Equipment needed: [list]
Shelf life achieved: [duration]
Nutrition retained: [percentage/notes]

**Method 2: [Alternative Method]**
[Same format]

### NUTRIENT PRESERVATION
| Nutrient | Best Method | Worst Method | Why |
|----------|-------------|--------------|-----|
| [Nutrient 1] | [Method] | [Method] | [Explanation] |
| [Nutrient 2] | [Method] | [Method] | [Explanation] |

### FOOD SAFETY

**Critical Temperatures**
- Danger zone: [temperature range]
- Refrigerator: [target]
- Freezer: [target]

**Time Limits**
- Room temp safe: [duration]
- After opening: [duration]
- After cooking: [duration]

**Warning Signs**
- Visual: [what to look for]
- Smell: [what indicates spoilage]
- Texture: [changes that indicate spoilage]

⚠️ When in doubt: [guidance]

### WASTE REDUCTION TIPS

**Before It Spoils**
- [Creative use idea 1]
- [Creative use idea 2]
- [Creative use idea 3]

**Reviving Slightly Past-Prime**
- [Technique for vegetables]
- [Technique for bread]
- [Technique for fruit]

### BATCH PREP STORAGE
If prepping in bulk:
- Portion sizes: [recommendation]
- Labeling: [what to include]
- Rotation: [FIFO system]
- Defrosting: [safe method]

## RULES
- Safety always comes first
- Account for individual circumstances
- Provide practical solutions
- Balance nutrition with convenience
- Include clear indicators for spoilage

## OUTPUT
Deliver as comprehensive storage and preservation guide.