Savor longer: Expert tips to keep your bread fresher, longer

Bread is a staple of the daily diet, accompanying Canadians for generations. However, nothing is more disappointing than a stale loaf recently delighted with its softness and aroma. This issue affects both store-bought and homemade bread. So, what can be done to keep bread fresh longer? Here are effective and proven ways to enjoy the taste of your bread for an extended period.

Before we move on to practical advice, it's worth understanding why bread loses its freshness. The main cause is moisture loss. This process is natural and unavoidable, but it can be slowed down.

How to store bread so it stays fresh longer?

• cotton or linen bags: Natural fabrics allow bread to breathe while preventing excessive drying. This is the ideal solution for sourdough bread and rolls.
• paper bags: They are great for fresh rolls and bread with a crispy crust. Paper protects against moisture but also allows air to circulate.
• breadbox: A traditional wooden or ceramic breadbox maintains the right humidity, preventing the quick hardening of bread.
• freezer: If you want to keep bread longer, you can freeze it. Before consumption, simply thaw it at room temperature.

Besides proper storage, there are many clever tricks that can help extend the freshness of bread. It's worthwhile to know them, especially if bread tends to last a long time in your home.

A piece of apple in the breadbox

This simple method can save your loaf from quickly drying out. The apple gradually releases moisture, keeping the bread soft for longer. Just replace a piece of apple in the breadbox or bag with the bread every few days.

Bread crust as a barrier

Instead of discarding the last piece of crust from the previous loaf, use it as a protector for new bread. The crust helps retain moisture and is a natural way to extend bread's freshness.

A slice of potato

Similar to the apple, a potato also acts as a natural humidifier. Just put a piece of potato in the bread container, and the bread will be less prone to drying. However, remember to replace the potato every 1-2 days to avoid it spoiling.

Freezing is one of the most effective ways to store bread without losing freshness. It's advisable to slice the bread before freezing – this makes it easier to thaw small portions later. The frozen slices can be heated in the oven or toaster, ensuring their taste and texture remain practically unchanged.

If, despite everything, the bread has become a bit hard, there are ways to refresh it. One of the simplest tricks is to sprinkle the bread with water and place it in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This way, the loaf will regain its softness and aroma. Alternatively, you can wrap the bread in a damp paper towel and heat it for a few seconds in the microwave.