There is constant debate about whether food in the freezer is actually safe. The long-drawn confusion lies in the fact that few people understand the concept and how it does actually protect food.
What Can You Freeze?
Almost any kind of food can be frozen. Exceptions to this are canned food or eggs in shells. However, you can freeze the canned goods once it is out of the can. Keep in mind that food like mayonnaise, cream sauce and lettuce don’t freeze very well, while raw meat and poultry maintain their quality for a longer time than cooked.
Is Frozen Food Safe?
If food is stored constantly at 0°F, then it will always be safe. The quality of frozen food suffers with lengthy freeze storage. Freezing keeps food safe because it prevents the growth of micro organisms that cause spoilage and food borne illnesses.
Freshness & Quality
Food if frozen at peak quality, are better tasting than foods frozen closer to expiry dates. Make sure that food is stored at 0°F or lower to retain vitamin content, colour, flavour and texture.
Nutrient Retention
Freezing food doesn’t destroy nutrients. Meat and poultry products, once frozen, show little change in nutrient value.
Packaging
Ensure food is properly packaged to maintain quality and ‘freezer burn’. Use air-tight wrapping such as heavy duty foil, plastic wrap or paper or even airtight freezer containers.
Freeze Rapidly
To maintain quality, freeze food as fast as possible. Slow freezing creates ice crystals, and then the thawing process damages the cells and causes meat products to lose its juiciness.