5 common mistakes to avoid when freezing food: important tips

When it comes to freezing food, many home cooks find it a convenient way to extend its shelf life and solve various kitchen problems. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind to ensure optimal results. SSPDaily tells you about the most common mistakes made when freezing food.

1. Thoughtful choice

Not all foods are ideal for freezing. Avoid freezing dairy products such as sour cream and yogurt, except for butter. Also, avoid fruits, vegetables, and berries with a high moisture content, as they tend to lose texture and flavor when thawed.

2. The right amount of food to store

An overcrowded freezer can impede air circulation, which negatively affects shelf life. In addition, a cluttered freezer makes it difficult to locate certain foods, leading to frequent temperature fluctuations that can jeopardize food safety.

3. Shelf life of perishable foods

Certain perishable foods, especially semi-finished products, should be stored in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Failure to store these foods in a timely manner can lead to foodborne illness.

4. Smart packaging

It is very important to use high-quality packaging materials suitable for freezing. Choose sturdy plastic bags, sturdy plastic containers, or jars specifically designed for use in the freezer. Thin plastic containers may not be able to withstand the load over time, which will affect the freshness and quality of the food.

5. Portion control

Defrosting and freezing food often degrades its quality. To avoid this, experienced chefs recommend dividing foods such as minced meat or berries into separate portions before freezing. This will allow you to defrost only what you need while maintaining the overall quality of the remaining portions.