Store bread with common kitchen vegetable to 'keep it fresh for up to three weeks'

Daily Record

07-05-2025

Waste management specialists have shared four simple steps that can help you keep bread fresher for longer, potentially saving you money and reducing food waste
Nearly 11 million loaves of bread are sold daily in the UK, but many end up thrown away due to mould and going stale. Waste management specialists have shared four tips to keep your bread fresher for longer, which could save money and cut down on food waste.
With bread being a staple in 99.8% of British homes, learning how to extend its freshness is key to combating one of the most common types of food waste. The team at Wheeldon Brothers say small changes in bread storage can significantly impact its longevity, reports Plymouth Live.
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A spokesperson from the company said: "Bread is one of the most frequently wasted foods in UK households," They continued: "But by making a few simple adjustments, like controlling moisture and temperature, you can extend its life and reduce the amount that ends up in the bin."
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The celery bread trick
One unconventional tip includes adding a stick of celery to the bread bag, which could keep the bread fresh for an extra week. The spokesperson said: "Celery gives off moisture, which helps prevent the bread from drying out without encouraging mould," and noted, "It's a clever way to maintain the softness of bread while storing it in the fridge."
Another suggestion involves puncturing the bread bag with small holes, a trick often mentioned online, to let moisture escape, thus preventing condensation and mould formation. "Moisture trapped in a sealed bag creates the perfect environment for mould to grow," the spokesperson explained. "Making a few small holes helps reduce that risk - just be careful not to overdo it, or the bread will dry out too quickly."
Try putting bread in a sealed container - or the freezer
You can also store bread in a sealed container. Using an airtight container can help maintain the ideal storage environment for your loaf.
"A sealed container adds an extra barrier against external moisture and fridge odours," the spokesperson noted. "Keeping the bread in its original bag and placing it inside a container with a tight-fitting lid is a great way to keep it fresher for longer."
Or you could freeze and toast straight from frozen. Bread freezes well, and individual slices can be defrosted quickly or toasted straight from the freezer.
"Freezing bread is one of the most effective ways to preserve it," the spokesperson stated. "By freezing sliced bread, you can use exactly what you need, when you need it - reducing both waste and cost.
"With the right storage methods, bread can stay fresh and mould-free for up to three weeks," the spokesperson added. "It's a simple but powerful way to cut waste and get the most out of every loaf."