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Why do tightly wrapped packages help prevent freezer burn?
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frozen meal
Depositing of prepared meals in trays prior to freezing.
Tightly wrapped packaging is essential for preventing freezer burn because it minimizes surface dehydration caused by moisture loss during storage.1
Freezer burn occurs when water molecules on the surface of frozen food undergo sublimation, transitioning directly from a solid ice state to a gaseous vapor state without first becoming liquid. This process causes the food to dry out, leading to the characteristic light-colored, leathery spots often seen on improperly stored items. By using a tight seal, you create a barrier that traps moisture and prevents it from evaporating into the dry air of the freezer, thereby preserving the food's texture and quality.123