How to store foods to make them last
The team at Toddler Recipes Australia show you the best ways to store and make your food last with this comprehensive guide – How to Store Foods to Make them Last. From traditional methods such as freezing and refrigeration, to vacuum-packing and sous-vide, the experts have you covered no matter what your storage needs. Get the best advice and tips on extending the shelf life of your produce, and ensure you and your family are eating fresh, healthy food.
How to Store Foods to Make them Last - Tips from Dad
G’day from Down Under!
I’m James, a father of one, cybersecurity specialist, and now home-cook extraordinaire. As parents, it’s essential to teach our little ones about the importance of nutrition and the benefits of home cooked meals. And as any experienced home-chef knows, food storage is of the utmost importance for safe and delicious eating.
That’s why today I’ll be talking about the best tips and tricks for keeping your food fresher for longer. Whether you’re a culinary master or just starting out, these food storage strategies will come in handy.
Refrigeration
Refrigeration is the most common form of food storage, especially for perishables like dairy, fruits, and vegetables. In order to best utilize your fridge, consider these tips:
-
Store fruits and vegetables in separate containers, labeled appropriately.
-
Put away dairy and other high-fat items on the lower shelves to prevent them from escaping their containers.
-
Keep a thermometer in the fridge to ensure that the temperature is consistently below 40°F (4.4° C).
-
Once opened, properly wrap and store items.
Freezing
Freezing foods is an excellent way to preserve them for longer. Here are some of my top tips for freezing:
-
Be sure to label and date all food items. This way you’ll know exactly what you have on hand.
-
Cut up fruits and vegetables into small pieces and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a Ziploc bag.
-
To avoid mushy frozen vegetables, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before freezing.
-
Use plastic containers, zippable bags, or aluminum foil to store items. This will prevent freezer burn and keep them fresher for longer.
Pantry Storage
For items that don’t need to be stored in the fridge or freezer, you can use pantry storage! Here are some of my favorite tips:
-
Get some airtight containers and separate items into categories. This will help you find what you’re looking for quickly.
-
Put the older items towards the front so that you use them up first.
-
Put heavy items on lower shelves and lighter items on higher shelves.
-
Choose containers made of glass or metal over plastic. This will help prevent the leaching of toxins.
With these tips, your food will always be fresh and delicious! Thanks for reading and happy cooking. Cheers!
James