What Is Freezer Burn?

It’s been super hot in my hometown of Los Angeles, and it has given me an all-new appreciation for the power of refrigeration. Humans have always wanted to keep food cold in order to prevent spoilage, but until relatively recently we had to rely on things like cool underground spaces, packed ice, and bodies of water. Then, in 1913, the first electronic refrigerator appeared on the market and chilled food has never been the same. Of course, with any technological advancement, there is a downside, and here it is the possibility for freezer burn. You’ve likely experienced this phenomenon, but you might not understand it. So, what is freezer burn? What does it look like? Does it harm your food? Let’s examine this cold case. 

What is freezer burn?

There’s nothing like a good oxymoron, is there? Along with jumbo shrimp, virtual reality, and black lights, freezer burn falls into the category of something that sounds impossible. How can something be both frozen and burned? 

In reality, there’s no actual “burning” that’s going on here. Freezer burn is simply what happens when super cold foodstuffs are exposed to cold air and begin to dehydrate. 

What does freezer burn look like?

The easiest way to identify freezer burned foods is to look for the formation of ice crystals on the surface. This gives the food item the appearance of being frostbitten, and you’ll likely have to scrape off some ice before you’ll be able to chow down. 

Also, be on the lookout for a change in color. Freezer burned foods are often duller and less vivid in appearance.

Can you eat freezer burned food?

There’s no ill health effects that will come from eating freezer burned foods. Though it might look a little weird, freezer burn itself will not harm your ice cream, frozen wings, or whatever else has been sitting in the back next to the ice packs. But because freezer burn is really caused by dehydration, your food will be missing some moisture, which can give it a different flavor or texture. You might find freezer burned food less appealing, but it should still be edible.

Do keep in mind that if food is freezer burned it might be an indication that it has been in the freezer for a long time. And that means that it could be past its expiration date. Be sure to use good judgment before enjoying old food. 

How to avoid freezer burn 

Freezer burn often ruins perfectly good food, or at least makes it much less appetizing, so it’s best to avoid it if possible. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to protect your groceries from this fate. 

One of the most important ways to keep your food protected is to ensure that the container it’s in is air tight. With less access to the cold air, the nourishment inside won’t have its moisture leached away. 

Another tip is not to leave your food in the freezer for too long. The shorter the stay, the less opportunity for moisture to disappear, so be sure not to leave stuff sitting in there forever.

Finally, try to limit the time you keep your freezer door open. A door ajar can lead to temperature fluctuations that will cause slight thawing and make it easier for ice crystals to form on your food.