Bread is one of the most commonly wasted food items in the UK. It’s believed that approximately 900,000 tonnes of bread are wasted each year. So it’s no wonder shoppers are constantly looking for ways to keep their loaves fresher for longer.
Popular bakers Warburtons have now shared expert advice for customers to get the best out of their bread and have revealed the biggest threat to it going stale quickly.
Most people believe buying bread with the longest date is the best option, this is especially true for bread and bakery products.
But should we store our loaves in a cupboard or in the fridge?.
Jill Charlton, head of nutrition at Warburtons explained: “We always advises checking the Best Before date, which appears on a yellow sticker on wax-wrapped bread or, if in a bag, on the plastic necktie. Bread can still be eaten after the Best Before date, although it may not be at its best quality. Consumers should always check for any mould before consuming.”
He also warned against using the common ‘squeeze test’ to check for freshness, as pressing too hard can damage the bread, making it less enjoyable to eat. This is also because pressing on the bread doesn’t determine the freshness of the bread and also damages the presentation of the packaging, reports the Mirror.
What is the secret to keeping bread fresh and mould-free?
One of the biggest mistakes people make is storing bread at warm room temperatures. Heat speeds up the process of spoilage, causing bread to go stale or develop mould much faster. This can lead to unnecessary food waste, especially if you don’t consume the loaf quickly. Therefore, the best way to keep bread as fresh as possible is to store it at room temperature in a part of the kitchen that isn’t too hot or too dry.
Warburtons advises against refrigerating bread, as cold temperatures cause it to turn stale more rapidly. Instead, to extend its shelf life, the best option is to freeze it.
Freezing bread not only helps to preserve its freshness but also reduces food waste. However, to maintain the best quality, Warburtons recommends setting the freezer temperature to -18°C and storing bread for no longer than three months. Once defrosted, it should be consumed as soon as possible for the best taste and texture.
By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy fresher bread for longer while reducing food waste, ensuring every slice is as good as the first one!
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