Finding ice crystals on a delivery of frozen foods indicates what issue?

Finding ice crystals on a delivery of frozen foods typically indicates time and temperature abuse. Ice crystals form when frozen foods experience fluctuations in temperature, leading to thawing and refreezing. This process not only affects the quality of the food, making it less appealing and potentially impacting its safety, but it may also indicate that the foods were stored or transported at improper temperatures for an extended period.

When food is properly frozen, it should remain solid without the formation of ice crystals, suggesting that it has been kept at a consistent, safe temperature throughout its storage and transport. Therefore, the presence of ice crystals serves as a red flag that the frozen foods may have been subjected to conditions that compromise their safety and quality.