Bread is one of those products that can be stored in a range of places in the kitchen, and is a point of controversy among storage experts.
While all agree that temperatures too warm can wreak havoc on the freshness of a supermarket loaf, there is conflicting advice as to exactly where it belongs.
The fridge is a go-to for many people and some opt for the freezer to maximise the shelf life.
But Natasha Blythe, food hygiene expert for High-Speed Training, has a more thoughtful approach to making bread last as long as possible.
She told Express.co.uk: “You should ensure that your bread is always kept covered to slow down the spoiling process.”
Natasha continued: “The best way to do this is by investing in a bread bin, or bread bag, which will keep your loaf fresh for longer.”
Aside from deciding what your pre-sliced supermarket loaf is stored in, it’s also important to consider what’s around it.
The food hygiene expert warned: “Moisture is the number one thing that will cause your bread to go mouldy quickly.
“As well as removing plastic packaging, you should also ensure that your bread is kept in a place that will remain dry, such as away from kitchen taps.”
According to Natasha, the best practice for bread that tastes as fresh as possible is to first remove all traces of plastic packaging – including the wrap it comes in.
This is worth doing as plastic traps moisture, so whatever is harboured inside the packaging will linger and result in a “sweaty” texture.
If it’s too late for bread and it’s already showing signs of mould, the food safety expert suggested that it is generally best to throw your loaf away when you start noticing mould.
She continued: “This is especially true if you have an unsliced loaf, as mould spreads quickly through the bread beyond the visible spots.”
Freezing is a great last resort to keep bread loaves edible and stop them from going stale and spreading mould. For the best results, slice the bread up first and wrap the slices in individual airtight freezer bags, or packs of two.
Most frozen bread is typically best when consumed within three to six months of being frozen. Anything stored at minus temperatures for longer periods may get freezer burn or lose some taste and texture.
How do you store bread? Let us know in the comments below.
