Freezer burn is the result of moisture loss from food that has been stored in the freezer for a long time. It can happen to any food, but it is most common with meats, poultry, fish, and fruits and vegetables.
When food is frozen, the water molecules inside it form ice crystals. These ice crystals can damage the cell walls of the food, causing it to lose moisture. If the food is not properly packaged, the moisture can escape into the freezer air, leaving the food dry and discolored.
There are a few things you can do to prevent freezer burn:
- Package food tightly. The best way to prevent freezer burn is to package food tightly so that no air can get to it. You can use freezer-safe bags, airtight containers, or even aluminum foil.
- Label food. It is also a good idea to label food with the date it was frozen. This will help you to keep track of how long the food has been in the freezer and when it needs to be used.
- Rotate food. When you are storing food in the freezer, it is important to rotate it so that you use the oldest food first. This will help to prevent food from spoiling.
Freezer burn does not make food unsafe to eat, but it can make it less appealing. If you find that food has freezer burn, you can try to salvage it by trimming away the affected areas. You may also need to add more moisture to the food before cooking it.
Here are some additional tips for preventing freezer burn:
- Do not overcrowd your freezer. When your freezer is overcrowded, the air cannot circulate properly, which can lead to freezer burn.
- Keep your freezer clean. Food particles and frost can also contribute to freezer burn, so it is important to keep your freezer clean.
- Avoid thawing and refreezing food. Thawing and refreezing food can increase the risk of freezer burn. If you need to thaw food, do it in the refrigerator or in the microwave.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent freezer burn and keep your food fresh and delicious.