It is very troublesome when newly purchased food items go bad earlier than expected. News24 have compiled 8 tips to follow to avoid that happening.
Handle food properly when cooking
During the hot summer months, the rate at which food deteriorates is significantly faster, which is mainly due to the fact that microorganisms thrive in heat. It is therefore of the utmost importance to return food to the fridge as quickly as possible after it has been taken out. Leaving food items out at room temperature or worse, in direct sunlight, can quickly cause the food to become unsafe to eat. When cooking, try not to let leftover portions cool too long before storing them in the refrigerator. It can be good to divide the food into smaller portions so that it cools down faster, thus minimizing the time that the food is in the “danger zone” between 5 and 60 degrees Celsius, where bacteria can grow quickly.
This is how you store food in the fridge in the best way
One of the most effective ways to extend the life of food during the summer is through proper cold storage. The internal temperature of the refrigerator plays a crucial role in this process. To ensure optimal preservation, the temperature of the refrigerator should be below 5 degrees Celsius. This reduces the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can accelerate the deterioration of food. Specifically for raw materials such as meat and fish, which are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, it is recommended that they be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator. This part is often at the bottom or in special sections intended for such products.
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This is how you store food in the freezer in the best way
The freezer is another valuable resource to help food last longer. If you find that you have an abundance of a certain food item, or if you know that you won’t be able to consume it before it goes bad, you should freeze it. Many foods, including bread, meat, and some fruits and vegetables, can withstand the freezing process well and retain their quality when thawed. It is important to note that when thawing these products, you should do so safely, either slowly in the refrigerator or quickly in the microwave, to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Also, once you have thawed foods, you should not refreeze them again, as this can affect the taste and texture and create a potential risk of food poisoning.
How to store your fruits and vegetables
Not all fruits and vegetables should be stored in the same way. Some do best when stored at room temperature, while others prefer the cool of the refrigerator. For example, fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, bananas, potatoes, onions and garlic should be stored at room temperature – putting them in the fridge can lead to textural changes and loss of flavour. However, most other fruits and vegetables feel better from cold storage. An exception is certain tropical fruits, which can be damaged by the cold and should be stored at room temperature. In general, it is best to store fruits and vegetables separately, as some fruits release ethylene, a gas that can accelerate the ripening and deterioration of other produce.
Therefore, you should never store onions and potatoes together
Don’t forget to pack the food
Packaging food can be a very effective method of extending its shelf life. When food is properly wrapped, the amount of oxygen that comes into contact with the food is reduced, which can slow the growth of bacteria and mold. Plastic wrap, plastic bags and airtight containers can all be useful tools for keeping food fresh. When packing food, make sure there are no air pockets left. Also, you should seal the package properly to prevent air ingress. If you store food in jars or containers, make sure they are clean and dry before adding the food. Moisture can accelerate the growth of bacteria and mold.
Maintain good hygiene
Good hygiene is central to preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and other pathogens in your food. This means you should wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially before and after handling raw foods. Cleaning surfaces and utensils regularly is also important to minimize the risks of cross-contamination between different foodstuffs. Also, remember that raw foods, such as meat and poultry, should be handled with special care to avoid spreading potentially harmful microorganisms.
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Use the FIFO method
An effective method of ensuring that food is used before it deteriorates is to apply the rotation principle, often called “First In, First Out” or “FIFO”. This means that you place newer foods at the back of the refrigerator or pantry and use the older foods first. By always doing this, you can ensure that the food does not become too old and thus reduce the risk of it going bad.
Plan your meals
By planning your meals in advance, you can ensure that you only buy the foods you actually need and will use. This not only reduces food waste, but also makes it easier to follow a healthy and balanced diet. Plus, by only buying what you need, you avoid overcrowded cupboards and fridges, which can cause food to spoil more quickly because air can’t circulate effectively.