by Thriving Mama

Created on: August 22, 2009   Last Updated: August 23, 2009

You've taken such care selecting or preparing foods to freeze. Now with a few helpful hints, your foods will stay fresh longer in your freezer. By knowing what causes freezer burn, you can better prevent it. By selecting appropriate containers, adding extra protection, and a bit of organization, you foods will be put to good use and not tossed because of damage.

Freezer burn is the loss of flavor and texture of stored food caused by ice building up on food in the freezer. Usually some form of moisture must be present for the ice to form and it can be as small as vapor condensation building up inside a bag or container. These ice crystals also have to have the space to grow around the food.

The first step in preventing freezer burn on produce is to eliminate any excess moisture. Most produce is frozen in loose pieces. Allow these pieces to dry completely after washing and blanching to provide optimal freezing. Berries and herbs, like basil, are particularly prone to freezer burn. Water droplets on these items will accelerate freezer burn and damage your produce as it will turn to ice right on your produce. Second, remove the space for the ice crystals to grow. By removing any excess air in freezer bags you will remove the space for ice to grow and damage your food. By placing a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of liquids or prepared foods that are being frozen. This will remove the space between the top of the food and the top of the container.

Choosing appropriate freezer containers can add additional protection against freezer burn. If you are freezing in plastic bags, make sure that you purchase freezer quality bags. This type of bag is generally made of a thicker grade of plastic and has a stronger zipper seal. This will protect your food longer. Plastic containers from cottage cheese, margarine and yogurt work great in the freezer as well as plastic containers that are available commercially. Loose items such as beans and berries will freeze best in bags while soups, sauces or liquids will freeze best in a container. Allow about inch at the top for expansion.

Keeping an inventory of what is in your freezer and keeping your freezer organized can help protect your food as well. This will allow you to quickly retrieve items that you need. The longer the door of your freezer is open, the more likely that ice will form in the containers around your food. This bit of organization will also save you from finding the "mystery food" in the bottom of the freezer later on.

You put time and planning into the items headed for your freezer. With a few precautions, your food will last even longer!

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