25 Mar Freezing Food: Too ‘COOL’ for School
Freezing food is an effective way to enjoy non-seasonal foods year round, and preserve food for an extended period of time. People have been freezing food for decades. While early trappers, fishermen, and farmers didn’t have the methods that we do today, they were still able to preserve their grains and produce by storing them in buildings during the colder winter months.
Freezing food is a both a safe and effective method of food preservation because the pathogens that normally spoil food are unable to form under cold temperatures.
National Frozen Food Month is in March, and it’s a great time to discuss the benefits of frozen food.
Freezing would have come about if it weren’t for the Ice-Maker (the first commercial ice making machine), which was introduced in 1851. Since then, people have been improving ways to freeze food, and in 1953, the first frozen TV dinner was introduced by C.A. Swanson & Sons.
Got Cold Feet?
People may be a little skeptical when it comes to buying frozen food assuming that the freezing process can’t preserve food indefinitely. However, the Food and Drug Administration states that frozen foods are safe to eat and will never spoil. The overall taste and flavor of the food may alter over time, but frozen food is indeed safe to eat.
Nutritional Content
Think the nutritional value is compromised when it comes to freezing? Think again. Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as lean meats and whole grains, will actually hold their nutritional value for long periods of time when frozen.
Food companies are listening more and more to consumers’ preferences when it comes to what they want. Because of this demand, healthier products are being developed. Jolly Llama cares about its consumers and has listened to them as well, which is why our Sorbet Pops are made with real fruit, and are dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy free. They are the perfect snack you can feel comfortable sharing with your children.
In addition, research has shown that frozen fruits and vegetables are just as healthy as fresh ones because they are picked and frozen when optimally ripe. Just be cognizant of the date listed on the product to know the best time to enjoy your food’s quality of taste.
Feeling a little weary when you see a frozen food has expired? Don’t be! One can still eat frozen food, even if it has surpassed its expiration date. Don’t get the “Sell By” and “Use By” dates mixed up. “Sell by” dates are used by stores to rotate inventory, but “use by” dates show consumers the best time for eat it.
“Cool” Facts about Freezing Food
You’ll find that most foods can in fact be frozen. Depending on the food, you may have to take additional measures in preserving it. For instance, lean meats may need to be re-wrapped/packaged, and some fresh produce requires blanching. Follow the FDA’s Guidelines for Food Storage and Preservation by clicking here.
One benefit of freezing food is it helps save you money. When foods are in season and go on sale (or when your garden is over-producing) take advantage by stocking up and freezing your food. It helps prevent waste and allows you to save money down the road when food isn’t in season and prices are higher.
Just as there is a correct way to freeze food, there’s also a proper way to defrost it. Don’t just throw your food on the counter (room temperature promotes the growth of bacteria), or throw it in a sink full of hot water (which can cause uneven temperature differences). Instead, always thaw your food by placing it in the refrigerator where it isn’t as cold as the freezer. Doing this allows your food to cool evenly and helps prevent aggregation. In addition, meats should be thawed using cold water that is changed every 30 minutes.
Frozen foods have a lot of benefits– they’re quick, convenient, cost-effective, nutritional, and delicious! Celebrate National Frozen Food Month with us by snacking on your favorite frozen food. Try one of our delicious varieties of Sorbet and Cream Pops today!
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