Nothing is worse than going to make a sandwich only to discover the bread is mouldy and stale, but you can easily keep it fresher for much longer if you know how to store it properly.
If your bread keeps expiring before its time then it may be a temperature issue, as heat will increase humidity in the air and cause mould to grow on bread due to the moist environment.
Make sure your bread bin is kept far away from the oven as well as kitchen appliances such as air fryers, microwaves and kettles.
The baking experts at Matthews Cotswold Flour, have also shared that storing bread in cold temperatures such as the fridge will also cause it to spoil.
They said: “Scientific studies show that this draws out the moisture, which can cause the bread to become stale three times faster than it would at room temperature.”
Bread will keep fresh if it is kept at the perfect temperature and moisture levels, which is why the best way to keep it fresh is to wrap up bread.
The expert said: “This method works for fresh, store-bought bread and homemade bread. It will trap the bread’s natural moisture to keep it from drying out.”
Wrapping up bread keeps in moisture to stop it going stale but you need to make sure to use clingfilm or tinfoil as these materials will also allow more airflow to also stop it becoming mouldy.
Bread cannot stay fresh if stored in paper as it is a weak protective barrier and will allow too much air into the bread, which is what can cause it to go stale.
The expert said: “If your bread came in a paper wrapping, toss it out and wrap it in cling film or tin foil for longer lasting storage.”
Once you have wrapped up your bread, keep it at room temperature in a dark place away from sunlight such as a breadbox, cupboard or pantry.
Make sure bread has plenty of space and do not squish too much into a small area as they will also rise moisture in a environment and create mould.
The expert said: “A breadbox provides the perfect amount of ventilation so that your bread maintains its moisture as well as its crispy crust.
“Just make sure you do not overstuff the breadbox: overfilling it raises the humidity level, which may cause your bread to get soggy.”
Your bread will keep fresh, firm and tasty for much longer if it is stored properly, but if you want it to last longer than a week then it is better to place it in the freezer.
Do not use regular household tinfoil or clingfilm to freeze bread as it will not be effective, and instead buy freezer bags or heavy-duty foil.
The expert said: “Consider slicing your bread before freezing. That way you will not have to slice it while it is frozen, and it is often difficult to slice once it’s thawed.”
