It looks weird and smells weird, but can you still cook it?

The good news is that freezer burn doesnt have to derail your meal plans.

Is It Safe to Eat Meat With Freezer Burn?

a frozen package of beef stew meat with freezer burn

Simply Recipes / Getty Images

What Causes Freezer Burn?

Freezer burn triggers when there isnt enough water in the meat.

The frozen water particles in foods turn to gasskipping the liquid phaseand the meat becomes dehydrated.

Freezer burn changes the texture and taste of meats, she says.

The amount of time the meat has been in the freezer can also trigger freezer burn.

How long is considered long?

The answer may surprise you.

More than a month, he says.

The way the meat is packaged can influence the flavor, too.