Does the freezer kill germs?

Generally not. In fact research labs keep their cultures of rare and dangerous bacteria and viruses in deep freeze conditions (far colder than the domestic freezer). read more

The usual home freezer temperatures reach about -20 to -30 degrees C° (at a max). This is far warmer than any extreme cold which can kill some bacteria. Some bacteria have a way of surviving cold and drying by forming protective coats called spores which can survive many years and grow again when warmed properly. read more

Freezing Food Doesn't Kill E. Coli And Other Germs : The Salt An outbreak of E. coli in frozen pizza, cheesesteaks, and other foods makes it clear: Just because the freezer's frosty doesn't mean it can kill microbes that cause food-borne illness. read more

"It is clear that freezing does not kill most of the bacteria," said Redl, "but puts them in a dormant state." Bacteria stops growing in the freezer, but will become active again once you slip your pants back on and those germs are warmed up by the heat of your body. read more