A baker shared where it is best to store bread to keep it fresh for a long time

We buy bread almost every day because, on the one hand, we can't do without it, and on the other hand, it quickly deteriorates and becomes unfit for consumption. It's hardly a practical approach, but what if we don't know how to properly store it from drying out and mold?

The Daily Record writes: "The only way out in such a situation is to learn how to do it because, in fact, there are more than enough ways to keep bread fresh." Here are some practical tips in this regard from Sophie Carey, Bakery Development Manager at Matthews Cotswold Flour.

Where can and cannot bread be stored?

First of all, the expert touched upon the topic of where bread should "never" be stored; otherwise, it will lose its flavor and freshness.

She said: "Bread should not be stored in the refrigerator! Although lower temperatures slow down the growth of mold, refrigerator conditions accelerate the staling process, making it inedible much earlier than it has time to become moldy."

"This is because the starch in bread re-crystallizes when it cools. Instead, it's better to freeze the bread, but to get the best results, wrap the loaves in double-wrap and then a layer of foil."

Sophie explains: "This will prevent the bread from freezing too much and help keep it tasting fresh."

Tip: A great way to freshen up frozen bread is to let it thaw at room temperature and then sprinkle with a little water before baking at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes.

The expert claims that in this case, "the taste of the bread will be as fresh as the day you received it."

Where can bread be stored?

Sophie noted that bread that stays out of the freezer is best stored in an airtight bread container rather than a plastic bag.

She explained: "The key to keeping bread fresh is a stable, cool temperature away from direct sunlight."

"If the loaf is well wrapped and placed in an airtight bread container, it prevents bacterial growth and mold, and the stable temperature and humidity will prevent it from becoming stale."

In turn, a plastic bag does not allow the bread to breathe and retains moisture inside, creating an ideal environment for mold growth.

If stored properly, bread will stay fresh for three to five days.