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What type of damage does freezer burn cause to food?

  1. Mold growth

  2. Dehydration damage

  3. Flavor enhancement

  4. Textural improvement

The correct answer is: Dehydration damage

Freezer burn primarily results in dehydration damage to food. When food is not properly wrapped or sealed before freezing, moisture within the food evaporates and forms ice crystals on the surface. This moisture loss leads to dry spots that not only affect the appearance of the food but also alter its texture. As air comes into contact with the surface of the food, the resulting dehydration can cause toughness and a decrease in quality. This indicates the importance of using appropriate packaging techniques, such as vacuum sealing or using moisture-resistant freezer bags, to minimize air exposure and prevent such damage. Understanding freezer burn helps in proper food storage management to maintain food quality and safety, rather than promoting any kind of beneficial change like flavor enhancement or textural improvement.