Freezer Burn: Why, What, and How?

A taste that screams, "I've seen better days..."

BY STAFF @the Brimly Test Kitchen

December 4, 2023

Image Source/Editors @ Brimly

4 minute Read

Casual Tone

HOW-TO GUIDE

OBJECTIVE VIEW

Freezer burn is nature's way of telling you that your leftovers have been in the Ice Age too long.

Hey there, kitchen warriors! Today, we're diving into a topic as chilly as it is mystifying: freezer burn. You know, that thing that turns your gourmet ice cream into a crystalline wasteland and your steaks into something resembling a leather shoe? Let's unravel this frosty mystery together!

Why Freezer Burn Happens: The Science of Chill

First off, let's get sciency (but not too sciency, I promise). Freezer burn is what happens when food loses moisture in the freezer. It's like a cold, dry desert in there, folks. When your food isn't wrapped up tighter than a holiday present, the air in the freezer zaps that moisture out, leaving you with dry spots and a taste that screams, "I've seen better days."

What Gets Hit the Hardest

Now, let's talk about the victims. Freezer burn is an equal-opportunity annoyer - it doesn't discriminate. Your veggies, meats, and even that pint of Chunky Monkey are all fair game. But here's a fun (or not-so-fun) fact: fatty foods like ice cream get hit hardest because fat oxidizes, leading to those weird, whitish-gray spots. Not exactly what you're craving for dessert, right?

How to Fight the Freeze

Alright, team, let's gear up to battle freezer burn. The secret weapon? Air-tight wrapping. Think of it as bundling up your food like you would on a snowy day. Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or freezer bags to keep that arctic air at bay. And remember, a full freezer is a happy freezer. It keeps the temperature more consistent, so keep it stocked - an excellent excuse for extra ice cream, right?

Bonus Tips

Before you go back to your culinary conquests, here are some quick-fire tips:

Label your foods with dates. Nobody likes playing "Guess the Freezer Artifact."

Freeze in smaller portions. It's like meal prep, but for your future, busier self.

Defrost with care. Patience is a virtue that rewards you with tastier, less freezer-burned food.

Our round-up is:

So, there you have it – freezer burn demystified. With a bit of know-how and some extra care, your freezer can go from the Bermuda Triangle of food to your trusty food-preserving pal. Happy freezing, and remember, the best meals are those that are both well-prepared and well-preserved!