freezer burn

foodstuffs

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

Freezer burn refers to light-colored spots on frozen foods that develop due to surface evaporation and drying. This occurs when food is inadequately wrapped or packaged, leading to moisture loss during storage.12

Low-temperature preservation, or freezing, is an excellent method for maintaining the nutritional quality of foods. However, improper freezing or storage can cause detrimental changes. Slow freezing can lead to fluid loss upon thawing, resulting in dehydration and nutrient loss. Fluctuating storage temperatures can cause ice crystals within the food to enlarge, altering texture, as seen in ice cream becoming sandy.32

To minimize freezer burn, it's recommended to use tightly wrapped packages and maintain consistent storage temperatures.2

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food preservation
Quality of frozen foods
…in surface dehydration (commonly called freezer burn). Frozen meats with freezer burn have the appearance of brown paper and quickly become rancid. Freezer burn can be minimized by the use of tightly wrapped packages and the elimination of fluctuating temperatures during storage.
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…in surface dehydration (commonly called freezer burn). Frozen meats with freezer burn have the appearance of brown paper and quickly become rancid. Freezer burn can be minimized by the use of tightly wrapped packages and the elimination of fluctuating temperatures during storage.
Read More