Melted and Refrozen Ice Cream, Is It Safe to Eat?

The Hidden Dangers of Refreezing and Consuming Ice Cream

Indulging in a scoop of ice cream or a refreshing milkshake can be a delightful treat, especially during scorching summer days. While many wouldn't think twice about enjoying their favorite frozen delights, a recent incident sheds light on a hidden danger that might lurk within—bacterial contamination that can occur when thawed ice cream is refrozen. The question arises: Can you safely eat ice cream that has melted and been refrozen?

Bacterial growth, particularly that of **Listeria monocytogenes**, commonly referred to as 'Listeria,' poses a significant risk. Infectious disease specialists emphasize that if ice cream is improperly stored and subjected to fluctuating temperatures, bacteria can thrive and multiply, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses. As a result, experts strongly advise against consuming ice cream that has undergone repeated thawing and refreezing, as it could compromise your health.

Recent news from the United States highlights the severity of this issue. According to local health authorities in Washington state, a popular burger franchise in Tacoma City reported three deaths and three hospitalizations among individuals who consumed milkshakes between February and July. Investigations revealed that the milkshakes were contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that managed to survive and proliferate due to inadequate hygiene practices.

The root cause of this contamination was attributed to insufficient cleaning of ice cream machines. The bacterium thrived in this environment and eventually found its way into the milkshakes. In response, health officials urged individuals who visited the establishment to seek medical attention if they exhibited symptoms of Listeria infection. The burger franchise ceased using its ice cream machines in early August to prevent further risks.

Listeria is a hardy bacterium that can survive even at temperatures as low as -18 degrees Celsius. It has an incubation period of up to 70 days, making it challenging to detect and prevent outbreaks. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that around 1,600 people are infected annually in the United States, with approximately 260 of them succumbing to the illness.

In South Korea, this incident has sparked concerns about the safety of consuming thawed and refrozen ice cream. Although the exact number of cases is difficult to ascertain due to a lack of comprehensive monitoring, data from select medical facilities show that there were 11 cases in 2022, 7 cases in 2021, and 8 cases in 2020, all related to Listeria infections.

Dr. Jane Kim, a food safety expert, explained, "Improper storage and repeated thawing and refreezing of ice cream provide an environment conducive to Listeria growth. Consuming ice cream contaminated with Listeria during such conditions can lead to foodborne illnesses." She highlighted that Listeria is commonly found in raw milk that has not undergone proper pasteurization, and its growth can be further fueled by the protein content of the milk.

While healthy individuals infected with Listeria might not exhibit immediate symptoms, those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly and young children, are susceptible to fever, diarrhea, and even severe complications like sepsis and liver abscesses.

The Washington case underscores that the improper handling and distribution of ice cream are major factors behind Listeria proliferation. Hygiene practices during storage and the freezing-thawing process play pivotal roles. Dr. Kim advised, "Even after ice cream is pasteurized and stored at temperatures below -18 degrees Celsius, harmless levels of bacteria might still be present. If ice cream is exposed to conditions that facilitate bacterial growth, such as thawing, it can lead to a significant increase in bacterial numbers, potentially causing foodborne illnesses."

To mitigate the risk of foodborne illnesses, experts recommend avoiding ice cream that **shows signs of having melted and refrozen, such as icicle formations or altered shapes**, and also avoiding products that have been stored for over a year. They also emphasize the importance of consuming opened ice cream products promptly and recommend consuming from smaller containers to minimize bacterial exposure during consumption.

In a world where frozen treats offer comfort on hot days, it's crucial to remain vigilant about food safety. While the allure of refrozen ice cream might be tempting, it's essential to prioritize your health and be aware of the potential risks associated with its consumption.