Chest freezers were often kept in garages and other cold places and worked efficiently (and economically) by not having to fight central heating temperatures. I have read your column for years, and been impressed with the clear explanations you normally provide.
Amino acids are found in animal sources such as meats, milk, fish, and eggs. They are also found in plant sources such as soy, beans, legumes, nut butters, and some grains (such as wheat germ and quinoa). You do not need to eat animal products to get all the protein you need in your diet.
No one says that you have to eat meat every day, but meat contains amino acids that help keep your body healthy. There are good, commonly available choices of meats that are high in protein and low in fat. You can do much better than just cutting off the fat from the meat you eat too.