Have you ever checked your freezer after a while only to find that once-fresh bread, cheese, or fruit is now covered in green and white patches? Do not worry; it is not uncommon. No one likes mouldy food, whether you are preparing a carefully planned meal or just storing leftovers in the fridge. We know that warm, damp conditions are a breeding ground for mould, which is why we store food in the refrigerator.

Some people go a step further and freeze food, thinking extreme temperatures might prevent mould growth. But how effective is this method? Let us find out.Also Read: Struggling With Frozen Food? Here Are 5 Correct Ways To Store Food In The FreezerPhoto: iStockCan Mould Grow In The Freezer?Surprisingly, yes.

You might think that the freezing temperatures of your freezer are enough to stop mould from spreading, but that is not the case. Mould can survive and even grow in freezing conditions, although at a much slower rate than in warmer environments.Freezing temperatures do not kill mould spores but only put them in a dormant state.

The moment conditions become favourable again—such as when food is thawed or moisture builds up in your freezer—the mould can begin spreading again. You might not notice mould growing on frozen food immediately, but if contaminated food is stored in your freezer, the spores will reactivate as soon as they get the chance. This is why you sometimes find mould on defrosted bread or leftovers.

Another reason mould can build up in your freezer is.