How long is the shelf life of frozen beans

The shelf life of frozen beans is usually 8-12 months, and the actual storage time is affected by factors such as storage temperature, packaging sealing, pretreatment method, freshness of raw materials, and repeated thawing times.

1. Storage Temperature

Quick frozen beans should be stored at a constant temperature below minus 18 degrees Celsius. If the temperature fluctuates greatly in the freezer compartment of a household refrigerator, the shelf life may be shortened. Due to stable temperature, commercial cold storage can store beans for more than 12 months. The increase in temperature will accelerate the formation of ice crystals, leading to the destruction of cell structure and nutrient loss.

2. Packaging sealing

Vacuum packaged frozen beans have better oxygen isolation effect and a shelf life that is 3-4 months longer than ordinary plastic bags. If the packaging is damaged or frosted, it may have undergone oxidation and deterioration. It is recommended to choose food grade aluminum foil composite film packaging products. After opening, they should be resealed and consumed as soon as possible.

3. Pre treatment method

Quick frozen beans that have been blanched have a longer shelf life, and high-temperature enzyme inactivation can delay quality deterioration. Untreated green beans are prone to producing lignified fibers after freezing, and their texture becomes noticeably harder after 6 months. Industrial grade quick freezing adopts monomer rapid freezing technology, which has better freezing effect than household freezing.

4. Freshness of raw materials

The shelf life of frozen products made from tender beans in the current season is longer, while frozen old beans are prone to hardening of the beans.

5. Repeated thawing times

Quick frozen beans will lose about 30% of their cell sap after thawing once, and it is not recommended to consume them after thawing more than twice. When storing at home, small portions should be divided to avoid repeated use of the entire package. If the beans become sticky, have a strange odor, or turn yellow after thawing, they have spoiled.

Quick frozen beans can be cooked directly without thawing before consumption. Blanching them in boiling water or stir frying them over high heat can maximize the preservation of their emerald green color and crispy texture. It is recommended to check the status of frozen foods every month. The vitamin C content of beans stored for a long time will gradually decrease, and they can be consumed in combination with fresh vegetables to supplement nutrition. Even if frozen beans stored for more than 12 months have not spoiled, their protein and mineral absorption rates will decrease. Pregnant women and those with weak digestive function should be cautious when eating.