Wait, don’t toss that frosty package of vegetables or those iced-over leftovers just yet!
Here’s what you better know about food that has developed freezer burn and what to do about it.
Plus, learn what causes freezer burn to begin with and how to prevent it.
Photo: Getty Images
That’s freezer burn.
But if you’ve chucked your freezer-burned food immediately in the past, you might want to reconsider.
What Is Freezer Burn?
Freezer burn can occur when there is moisture lost from frozen food.
All foods contain water, which forms ice crystals when frozen, causing dehydration.
The dehydration makes the food dry and tough underneath a layer of thousands of ice crystals.
This usually happens from the surface inward.
What Happens When Foods Freeze?
There’s a science tofreezing your food,and it doesn’t happen as quickly as you might think.
Your freezer being overfilled can also lead to a longer freeze time, which can cause freezer burn.
But that isn’t the only issue, says Matijevich.
Freezing foods at higher temperatures20F to 32Fmeans that the water will most likely crystallize into large, sharp crystals.
What Happens When Foods Become Freezer-Burned?
But it’s not only meat that can be affected.
The longer any food stays in the freezer, the higher its chances of developing freezer burn.
Wrapping food, particularly meat, as tightly as possible is one of your best defenses against freezer burn.
double-check everything is entirely covered inside the smallest sealed container or storage bag possible.
Like meat, it’s still completely safe to eat.
However, the textural changes may be more evident since you’re eating a frozen treat.
Moving forward, ensure that you keep your ice cream covered tightly.
Try blending your fruits into adelicious smoothie, or spin your veggies into ahearty soup.
Is It Safe to Eat Freezer-Burned Foods?
So, is it safe to eat freezer-burned food?
It just tastes really bad."
Is It Safe to Refreeze Foods?
The answer depends on the situation, says Matijevich.
“The more times you thaw food out and refreeze it, the more opportunity bacteria have to reproduce.
You should then refreeze the item as quickly as possible.
While flavor and texture will undoubtedly suffer when food has been freezer-burned, it is still safe to eat.
Now that you know how to prevent freezer burn moving forward,double-check you’re NOT freezing these foods.
