Picture this: you’re heading to your freezer for a sweet frosty treat, or to whip up a quick dinner for some hungry mouths. Then fear strikes – your once-fresh food is covered in mysterious icy patches. Meet freezer burn.
What causes freezer burn?
To get scientific, freezer burn is caused by a process called sublimation. When food is exposed to the frosty temperatures in your freezer, the moisture within it starts to evaporate. This evaporation can leave behind dry pockets and leads to the formation of ice crystals – but not the Let It Go kind.
How to tell if food is freezer burned
Think your food might be freezer burned but not sure? Keep an eye out for tell-tale indications such as discoloured patches on the surface of your food, a leathery texture, or an off-putting odour. If your steak looks more like a frostbitten mountain range than sirloin, or your ice cream resembles an Arctic tundra, chances are you’ve got a case of freezer burn.
Is freezer-burned food safe to eat?
Although freezer burn doesn’t look appetising, it’s generally safe to consume. Whilst the texture and taste might suffer a bit, freezer burn itself doesn’t pose any health risks. However, if you find freezer-burned food that’s been stored for an exceptionally long time, it’s best to exercise caution and use your judgement. When in doubt, trust your taste buds!
How to prevent freezer burn
Luckily, there are a few ways to prevent freezer burn. First, make sure your food is properly packaged before you banish it to the freezer. Airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags are great for this, as they keep air and moisture at bay. Plus, double wrapping delicate items like fish or berries can provide an extra layer of protection.
Secondly, keep an eye on those dates! Remember, frozen food isn’t invincible – just like food stored outside the freezer, it has a limited shelf life. Try to rotate your frozen goods and consume them within the recommended time frames. This way, you’ll enjoy peak freshness and minimal freezer burn. Good stuff.
Lastly, pay attention to your freezer temperature. Your freezer should be maintaining a steady, cold climate – if its not, it might be time to think about replacing it. Fluctuating temperatures can speed up the formation of freezer burn, so make sure your food is keeping its cool.
Found what you need?
If you have – great. If not – don’t worry. You can always chat to an expert in-store or via video call on ShopLive. They’ll be able to give you the lowdown on loads of great refrigeration appliances and accessories.