Here is some info from the FDA regarding frozen meats for human consumption. You can extrapolate for snakes.
1. Freezing does not remove nutrients to any significant degree if the meat is kept at 0 deg F.
2. Maintaining at 0 deg F does not kill microbes - it only deactivates them. Once thawed, the microbe growth resumes just like on a fresk-kill.
3. Wild whole game can be maintained at 0 deg F for 8-12 months without sacrificing quality. It is safe for much longer than that but may dry out and therefore suffer in quality.
4. Freezer burn is where the meat dries out in spots. That will erode quality and nutrient content for that small part of the meat.
5. The best/safest way to thaw frozen meat is in the refrigerator, in the microwave or in cold water. Never on the counter or under lights or in warm water.
So I guess the real question is how many of our freezers can maintain 0 deg F. And, I always thawed in warm water or in the room. FDA says that practice is not optimal for best quality and least bacteria activity.
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Mark





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