Preventing Freezer Burn

Good packaging will prevent "burned" food.

Protect all your foods by choosing packaging material that is moisture-vapor-resistant. Containers made of aluminum, glass or plastic work well because water and vapor can't pass through them. Don't use butcher paper or waxed paper for freezing. They aren't vapor resistant.

Poorly packaged frozen food dries out, loses its original freshness, and natural colors, flavors, and nutritive values. The process, called freezer burn, is irreversible and affected portions of the "burned" food should be discarded.

The loss of moisture from poorly packaged frozen food adds to frost from other moisture sources. This increases the defrosting task for the freezer or for you.

Oxygen can damage frozen foods.

Frozen foods must be packaged in containers that close tightly. If oxygen can reach the food, it will speed poor meat flavors, darken light colored fruits, and may cause boilable pouches to burst. Oxygen won't damage vegetables as much as it does other foods, because vegetables are protected somewhat by a natural, built in antioxidant.

Protect all your foods by choosing packaging material that is moisture-vapor-resistant. Rigid containers made of aluminum, glass or plastic work well because water and vapor can't pass through them. Don't use butcher paper or waxed paper for freezing. They aren't vapor resistant. All wraps should be strong enough to be handled and frozen without tearing.

Polyethylene bags

These are excellent for freezing food. They must be from one-and-a-half to three mils thick. Thinner bags won't protect the food, and thicker ones are hard to twist adequately at the top for sealing. Good bags cost more money than thin ones, but they will protect food and they can be reused.

Other good packaging materials include heavy aluminum foil and laminated and coated sheets. Use just enough to cover the food and make a good closure.

Handle frozen foods with respect. Adding the proper packaging to good food and using the right freezer temperature will yield the best-tasting food.

For more information on preventing freezer burn, contact your local county Extension office.