Bread stays fresh and mould-free for 'significantly' longer with 1 key food storage tip

With the rising cost of groceries and people looking to stretch their shopping further, minimising food waste has become more important than ever. Bread, whether homemade or store-bought, is particularly susceptible to changes in texture and freshness within just days of purchase.

While many households keep it in a bread bin or cupboard, these methods often don't prevent it from developing mould. Fortunately, one baker says there's one food storage trick that could make a dramatic difference to bread's shelf life.

The simple solution lies in a household appliance almost everyone already owns - the freezer. While it may sound counterintuitive, freezing bread is the best way to preserve its taste and texture while halting the development of mould.

As long as the bread is properly wrapped, freezing locks in moisture without letting it go stale, and it can be toasted or refreshed in the oven when needed.

This clever method also avoids the problems of refrigeration, which many assume is helpful but actually accelerates how stale the bread gets.

Freezing allows bread to stay fresh for weeks rather than days, making it a cost-effective and practical tip for families and solo households alike.

Professional baker Gareth Busby, of Busby's Bakery, supports the method, explaining: "Bread stored in the freezer is protected from mould growth due to the lack of warmth and moisture that mould requires to thrive."

According to Busby, while bread kept in the fridge may last a few extra days, it loses quality much faster than frozen bread.

He adds that wrapping bread well - either in freezer bags or plastic wrap with foil - ensures it maintains flavour and consistency when thawed.

"Freezing stops the clock on freshness," Busby said. "And that's something fridges simply can't do as effectively." The key lies not just in freezing but in how you do it, with proper wrapping and sealing being crucial for best results.

Those looking to cut down on waste and save money can easily apply this technique with any type of bread, from sandwich loaves to sourdough.

Slices can be frozen individually for quick breakfasts, or whole loaves stored and sliced later after gentle reheating.

The baking expert recommends letting bread thaw naturally at room temperature or giving it a quick heat-up in the oven to restore crustiness.

While freezing doesn't make bread last forever, it extends its life "significantly" without compromising on flavour; and with this one simple step, your bread can stay fresh, tasty, and mould-free for much longer.