Freezer burn happens when a food becomes exposed to the cold, dry air of the freezer, causing the thin layer of moisture on the food’s surface to evaporate. This makes the food toughen and dry out, and it leaves behind grey or brown patches that look pretty unappetizing. To prevent freezer burn, follow these helpful tips before freezing foods like meat or vegetables.
- Make sure the food is completely covered. The most important thing that you can do to prevent freezer burn is to cover your food completely. Use plastic wrap, wax paper, or aluminum foil to cover the food, and tape it shut if it seems like some air might sneak through an open side. You can even double wrap the food to be extra cautious.
- Don’t leave foods in their store-bought packaging. Although store packaging on things like meat or fish seal the food against the air, they aren’t meant to protect it from the freezer. Be sure to remove foods from their packaging and wrap them yourself before freezing.
- Rotate items. Just about anything can become freezer burnt if left in the freezer for too long, so be sure to rotate the items in your freezer to ensure that you eat the older foods first.
Food Science: What is Freezer Burn and How to Prevent It [The Kitchn]
Freezer Burn: Gross, Yet Safe and 10 Tips for Prevention [Don’t Waste the Crumbs]
How to Prevent Freezer Burn [Real Simple]
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