While freezing is considered a foolproof method for preserving food for long periods of time and thus saving money, some products are much less resistant to it than others. These foods will indeed lose their flavor and texture, or even become dangerous for health if they remain in the freezer for too long.
Fruits and vegetables rich in water
Fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, radishes or strawberries do not tolerate prolonged freezing well. Their high water content causes the formation of ice crystals that significantly deteriorate their texture and end up making them soft after only a few months in the freezer. It is therefore best to consume these foods within 6 months of freezing.
Dairy products
Dairy products are not meant to be stored in the freezer for long periods of time. Hard cheeses, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, can be frozen for up to 6 months, but beyond that, they lose flavor and quality. Beyond taste, prolonged freezing promotes bacterial proliferation, despite the cold. For soft cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, it is best to simply avoid freezing them. Unsalted butter can be stored in the freezer for about 3 months, while salted butter benefits from the preservative properties of salt, allowing it to be stored properly for up to 12 months.
The eggs
Eggs and the freezer don’t mix. Freezing raw eggs is a bad idea: the liquid inside expands as it freezes, which will crack the shell and make the egg unusable. Cooked eggs, especially the whites, become rubbery. For optimal storage, it’s best to freeze eggs out of their shell, such as in beaten form, in airtight containers.
Meats
Raw meats can be kept in the freezer for about 8 months. Beyond this period, the quality of the meat deteriorates considerably. The water present in the flesh forms ice crystals that alter its texture, making the meat less tender and tasty. In addition, although freezing slows down microbial proliferation, it does not stop it completely. By consuming meat after freezing for too long, you risk food poisoning.
Whatever the frozen product, remember to wrap it well to avoid the formation of ice crystals. Also, be sure to label the products with the freezing date to track their shelf life and avoid unpleasant surprises.
