When two pieces of meat are stuck together due to freezer burn, it can be challenging to separate them without causing damage. However, you can try the following steps to minimize any potential harm:
Thawing: Place the plastic-wrapped meat in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly. Thawing at a low temperature will help soften the frozen meat and make it easier to separate.
Gentle Separation: Once the meat has thawed partially, try gently separating the pieces. Start at the edges where they are least stuck together. Slowly and carefully wiggle and pry the pieces apart using your fingers or a blunt utensil. Avoid using sharp objects that may puncture or tear the packaging.
Moisture: If the meat is still difficult to separate, you can try adding a small amount of moisture to the area where they are stuck together. Dampen a clean cloth or paper towel with water and place it between the stuck parts. The moisture can help loosen the bond caused by freezer burn. Again, be gentle when trying to separate them.
Refreezing: Once you have successfully separated the meat, evaluate its quality. Freezer burn can affect the taste and texture of the meat, so if it appears severely affected, you may want to discard it. If the quality seems acceptable, you can choose to refreeze the meat in separate packages or use it immediately.
Remember that freezer burn can negatively impact the taste and texture of frozen food. To prevent freezer burn in the future, ensure that your meats are properly sealed in airtight freezer-safe packaging, removing excess air before sealing. It's also recommended to use the meat within the recommended storage times to maintain quality.