How to Avoid Freezer Burn: 3 Essential Rules for Freezing Food Long-Term

How to Avoid Freezer Burn: 3 Essential Rules for Freezing Food Long-Term We’ve all been there—opening the freezer to grab some leftover chicken nuggets only to find a sad, frosty block that looks like it’s been through the freezer’s version of a spa day. Freezer burn is real, folks, and it can turn your delicious food into something unrecognizable, tasteless, and—let’s be honest—pretty unappetizing. But don't worry! Freezer burn doesn't have to be your kitchen nemesis. With just a few simple rules, you can keep your food fresh and tasty, even after months in the deep freeze. Here are 3 essential rules to help you avoid freezer burn and make your freezer your best friend. 1. Use Proper Packaging – Don't Let Your Food Go Naked! Imagine you’re lounging by the pool on a hot summer day. You wouldn’t walk around in your birthday suit, right? Well, your food doesn’t like to go naked either. Proper packaging is the key to keeping the cold from doing too much damage. Make sure to wrap your food tightly in materials that seal out air. Freezer bags, vacuum-seal bags, and airtight containers are your best bet. The trick is to keep the food as sealed as possible to prevent air from sneaking in and causing freezer burn. If you're using freezer bags, be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible—think of it like giving your food a nice cozy blanket. If you’re freezing larger items, like whole roasts or pizza, you can double up on the packaging—wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. This double defense helps keep moisture in and air out, ensuring your food stays fresh. 2. Keep Your Freezer at the Right Temperature – The Cold Truth Freezer burn isn’t just about freezing food. It’s also about how cold your freezer is. Most home freezers should be set to 0°F (-18°C). If your freezer is set too high, it could lead to thawing and refreezing, which messes with the texture and taste of your food. So, make sure you’ve got that freezer dialed in at the right temperature. You can even get a thermometer to keep an eye on things—because, trust me, your food doesn’t want to get too warm and start thinking it’s a vacation on a tropical island. Keep it cool, and your food will thank you. 3. Label Everything – You’re Not a Mind Reader! Ever pull something out of the freezer, look at it, and wonder, "What in the world is this?" You’re not alone! It’s easy to forget what’s in there, especially when you’re stockpiling frozen meals like it’s the apocalypse.