Does ice cream actually degrade in quality in freezer over time?

[E equals MC2]

Local Stop & Shop had some crazy sales for Edy's ice cream.

I bought three half galon jugs.

I don't know if I can finish them all relatively soon. Does the quality actually diminish in the freezer over time? If so, around when?

 

[kogase]

I'd say after a week, maybe two weeks it starts getting... grainy. I'm not sure what happens but eventually it's not that nice anymore.

 

[jagec]

I hypothesize it has to do with the ice crystals slowly growing.

 

[bradruth]

Well, it'll get freezer burn after a while.

 

[zanieladie]

Not only freezer burn, but it starts to pick up the odors from other foods. YUCK!

 

[PhoenixOrion]

In my experience, yes, ice cream tastes differently after a while...so no more half-gallons in the freezer.

Now I only go for haagen dasz pint size or one of those 6 sticks/pack (strawberry sorbet or other fruit sticks during summertime). good stuff.

 

[ColdFusion718]

yeah it does, it becomes icy and develops this freezer smell.

 

[IGBT]

Originally posted by: ColdFusion718
yeah it does, it becomes icy and develops this freezer smell.

..I've had that happen. even had a slight taste of onion.

 

[randal]

You can avoid/delay the freezer burn by storing it upside down OR putting some saran wrap over the top before you put the lid on.