Culinary art is a way to share and build the culture and identity of a nation, region and community. Through foods, preparations, recipes and customs, we manifest social, cultural, economic and political practices. One of the most legendary, historical and traditional food productions is bread. It is a symbol among the meals of all communities and generations across the world. It is a reference of home, meeting and stability. There are many ways to prepare it to enjoy its flavor, texture and aroma. And also to keep it so that it does not get damaged. Did you know that it is best to store bread in a plastic bag?
According to artisanal bakery Pan Arte-Sano, bread is a staple in Spanish society and is an important part of the country’s culture and history. “Bread is eaten at all meals and is a symbol of tradition and national identity.” At the same time, they highlight the importance and role that food played in the Spanish economy in the Middle Ages. At that time, bakers were organized into corporations and their production was controlled by municipal councils. Furthermore, they detail that during the 19th century, bread production modernized with the introduction of new mills and ovenswhich allowed for greater production and wider distribution of bread. Members of Pan Arte-Sano explain that bread is considered a food that unites the community, symbolizes generosity, hospitality and national identity.
Why shouldn’t you store bread in a plastic bag?
According to Bucket of Bread, a food manufacturer, there are different reasons why it recommends not storing bread in plastic bags. In this sense, they mention that plastic bags retain moisture and cause a loss of texture.
In this way, plastic causes a alteration of the consistency and composition of the breadcausing it to deteriorate faster due to lack of air circulation.
In this sense, the food company explains that bacteria and mold proliferate in humid and poorly ventilated environments, and that a plastic bag constitutes the ideal breeding ground for these unwanted organisms.
Less flavor
Another reason you shouldn’t store bread in a plastic bag is the taste. Baked products are more likely to absorb the taste and odor of the plastic, especially if the bread is stored in the plastic bag for a long time.
How to store bread safely and effectively?
The way you store and preserve bread allows you to give it more quality, freshness, texture, flavor and aroma. Once you know why you should not store bread in a plastic bag, it is recommended to know different methods to be able to store it safer and more efficiently.
paper bag
One option is to use a paper bag or bread basket. These are materials that provide better air circulation than plastic bags, thus preventing the formation of moisture and loss of texture.
linen bag
Another way to store bread so that it is fresher is to place it in a cotton or linen bag, that is, textile. These are natural materials that promote air circulation and prevent the formation of fungi.
freeze bread
You can also implement the freezing technique to give it a longer shelf life. In this sense, use aluminum foil or transparent film to wrap it. Then place it in a zip-top plastic bag. When you want to eat it, remove it and defrost it at room temperature or in the oven.
Artisan bakery Mapué explains that breads with crispy crusts tend to absorb water from the environment. This makes them sensitive to humidity and is one of the reasons why You should not store bread in a plastic bag.. As a result, the hardness of the crust disappears and the dough becomes softer.
As you can see, it is important to choose a storage method that gives you more security, confidence and quality in the conservation of the raw materials for your breads. It is therefore preferable to avoid storing them in plastic bags, as they encourage the formation of humidity and fungus.
It is therefore recommended to implement other conservation alternatives so that your bread at home maintains its quality, freshness, aromas and flavors so that you can always consume it in good condition.
