Whenever we freeze food there is always the risk of freezer burn, even in the most efficient freezers. Freezer burn is those unsightly spots that look as if the food is discolored and mostly takes place in foods that contain a high amount of water.

 

Freezer burn takes place because of a process called sublimation which means that moisture is lost due to increased airflow and lack of humidity, and while food is still edible, it may be dryer and tougher when cooked.

 

There are some things that we can do to prevent freezer burn

Keep the door closed

The more times the door is opened, the more the inside temperatures will fluctuate. As air warms up, frozen food loses its moisture, and it begins to dry.

 

Avoid long term storage

Even the best protected foods will still get freezer burns if they are left for more than six months. It is better to have a rotation system where you constantly use older frozen foods and replace them with fresh meals.

 

Refrigerate before freezing

Any food which is placed into the freezer even slightly warm will raise the temperatures of the interior. Make sure anything you plan on freezing has been completely cooled in the fridge before it goes into the freezer.

 

Use containers that seal well

Airtight containers are best as this will prevent too much exposure to dehydrating air. Alternatively, you can use vacuum sealing bags which will remove most of the air.

 

Rethink the temperature

While food will freeze at 32 degrees F, if you keep the temperature of the freezer colder than this it will help to prevent freezer burn. Freezing at low temperatures will halt the sublimation process a little.

 

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