I was helping one of my clients organize her kitchen a few weeks ago. While she was emptying out her freezer, she noticed a package of chicken that was covered in ice crystals and looking pretty unappetizing.
“Is this still okay to eat?” she asked, holding it up with a skeptical look on her face. It was a perfect moment to talk about freezer burn and how to prevent it.
What is Freezer Burn?
Freezer burn happens when food gets dehydrated in the freezer due to exposure to air. Those ice crystals you see are moisture that's been pulled out of the food. The dry, discolored patches—usually a whitish-gray or brownish color—are a sign that the food has lost its quality.
Though freezer-burned food is safe to eat, the texture and taste can be quite off, leaving you with dry or flavorless meals.
Why is Freezer Burn Bad?
Even though
freezer-burned food aren't likely to make you sick, you’ll probably notice a big difference in how it tastes. Meat tends to get tough and stringy, while fruit and veggies may taste bland or lose their vibrant color.
If you’ve spent time preparing meals for the
freezer, it’s frustrating to see them deteriorate due to freezer burn, not to mention the waste when it ends up in the trash. The goal of freezing food is to preserve it, and freezer burn undermines that effort.
How to Prevent Freezer Burn
Fortunately, you can avoid freezer burn with a few simple tricks. Here are some easy ways to ensure your frozen food stays fresh:
2. Label and Date Everything: Knowing how long something has been in your freezer helps you prioritize what to use first. Write the date you’re freezing the food, and aim to use items within 2-3 months for best
quality.
3. Use Proper Containers: For soups, sauces, or any liquids, make sure to use freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top to allow the liquid to expand as it freezes, but don’t leave so much room that the food is exposed to air. 4. Avoid Overloading the Freezer: When the
freezer is packed too full, air can’t circulate properly, which leads to uneven temperatures and, you guessed it, freezer burn. Organize your freezer so there’s space for air to flow.
5. Freeze in Small Portions: Large portions take longer to freeze, giving freezer burn more time to develop. Freeze in smaller,
single-use portions so they freeze quickly and are easy to thaw.
6. Keep the Temperature Consistent: Set your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) and check it regularly to make sure it stays consistent. If your freezer is constantly fluctuating in temperature, it can increase the risk of freezer burn.
Freezer burn might not be harmful, but it can be disappointing when your carefully prepped meals or favorite foods lose their taste and texture. With these simple tips, you can keep your frozen goods in tip-top shape and avoid that dreaded discovery of ice crystals on your food
