Bread needs to be stored correctly to stay fresh – and leaving it on the worktop to dry out simply won’t do as experts advise exactly where to put it
Bread is undeniably delicious, yes. But the unfortunate downside is how quickly it can become mouldy if not stored correctly. Many of us have a tendency to simply leave it on the countertop – but that isn’t enough. Ever wondered by it goes bad before its best date? Bread actually needs a proper storage to last for as long as possible.
Due to its short shelf life, bread requires proper storage to maintain its freshness. While there are several options for storing bread, it’s important to avoid certain kitchen appliances that, despite their convenience, will cause the bread to spoil much faster.
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To help your bread stay fresh for longer, it’s recommended to keep it away from any kitchen appliances that release heat, such as ovens, microwaves, stoves, and even a fruit bowl. The heat and moisture released by these appliances can dry out the bread, cause it to grow mould, and make it go stale more quickly. It also results the bread to become less soft and chewy, making it not enjoyable to eat.
Why does bread go bad when it’s kept next to fruits?
Fruits like bananas and apples release a gas called ethylene, which acts as a ripening agent. This accelerates the process of bread spoiling, causing it to go bad much quicker. It’s recommended to store bread in a plastic bag to preserve its moisture and maintain its crust. However, wrapping it too tightly can have the opposite effect.
Emily from Epicurious offered some advice on how to store sandwich bread effectively: “Sandwich bread does well when stored in a plastic bag; it locks in moisture which keeps the crust soft. But too much moisture will create mould, so I’ve found it’s best not to keep the bag airtight. Loosely twist the end to close.”
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How to make your bread last longer
Store-bought bread can typically be kept at room temperature for anywhere between two to four days. If you want to extend its freshness for a few extra days, you can store it in the fridge, which will prolong its shelf life for up to seven to 14 days.
For those who can’t finish the loaf before it starts to go stale and don’t want to throw it away, freezing is another good option. Once frozen, bread can be kept in the freezer for anywhere between three to six months. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply defrost it and pop it in the oven to refresh it.
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However, it’s important to note that while freezing helps to preserve the bread, it won’t keep it fresh indefinitely. After the three-to-six-month mark, its quality will begin to deteriorate.
Alternative ways to store bread include using a breadbox or keeping it in a plastic bag. Regardless of your how you choose the keep your bread, it’s important to store it away from heat sources and fruit to maintain its freshness for as long as possible.
