My Frozen Meat Has Gray, Dry Patches—Is Freezer Burn Safe to Eat?
Use Airtight Packaging
Wrap the meat tightly so that the packaging makes close contact with its surface. Seal every edge and remove excess air from freezer bags.
Freeze Meat While It Is Fresh
Freezing does not improve aging food. Meat placed in the freezer near the end of its refrigerator life may have poorer quality when thawed.
Label Every Package
Write the type of meat and freezing date on each package. Clear labeling prevents forgotten food from remaining in the freezer for years.
Keep the Freezer at 0°F
Use an appliance thermometer to verify the temperature. The freezer’s control dial does not always show the actual temperature.
Avoid Overloading the Freezer With Warm Food
Large amounts of warm food can raise the freezer temperature and slow freezing. Divide food into smaller packages before freezing.
Limit Temperature Fluctuations
Avoid opening the freezer unnecessarily. Check that the door closes completely and that no package prevents the seal from working.
Use Older Packages First
Organize meat so that older packages remain visible and accessible. A first-in, first-out system reduces waste.
How to Thaw Freezer-Burned Meat Safely
Whether or not meat has freezer burn, use a safe thawing method.
