It is the season for getting fresh in from the hot summer and also the period when people receive a break significantly. But the rate of humidity during this period is so high that food gets spoiled very quickly and the shelf life of food drastically decreases. Since the quality of food drastically reduces when exposed, food preservation becomes a concern and higher rates of food danger. In this respect, I will underscore only the lack of measures and practices for storing most of the foods intended to be consumed to minimize the rate of food spoilage. The following are the foods
Hack 1: Proper Storage Of Fruits And Vegetables
1. Using Newspaper For Vegetables
Wrapping vegetables like leafy greens, carrots, and beans in newspaper before storing them in the refrigerator can help absorb excess moisture. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and extends their freshness. Newspapers are easily available and act as a natural absorbent, keeping your vegetables crisp.
2. Storing Fruits In Breathable Bags
Fruits like apples, pears, and citrus fruits should be stored in breathable bags, such as cloth or mesh bags, to allow air circulation. This helps prevent the buildup of moisture and ethylene gas, which can cause fruits to ripen and spoil faster. Keeping fruits in breathable bags also helps maintain their natural flavour and texture.
3. Banana Storage Hack
Bananas tend to ripen quickly during the monsoon due to the high humidity. To slow down the ripening process, wrap the stems of bananas with aluminium foil or cling film. This reduces the release of ethylene gas from the stems, keeping the bananas fresh for a longer period.
Hack 2: Maintaining Grain Freshness
1. Airtight Containers For Grains
Storing grains like rice, wheat, and pulses in airtight containers is crucial during the monsoon. Moisture can easily seep into the grains, leading to spoilage and infestation by pests. Using airtight containers prevents moisture ingress and keeps the grains dry and fresh.
2. Bay Leaves For Pest Prevention
Adding a few bay leaves to your grain containers can help deter pests such as weevils and beetles. Bay leaves have natural insect-repellent properties, ensuring that your grains remain pest-free. This simple hack can effectively protect your grains from infestations during the monsoon.
3. Sun-Drying Grains
If you notice any moisture in your grains, spread them out under the sun for a few hours. Sun-drying helps eliminate moisture and any potential mould or bacteria. Once dried, store the grains back in airtight containers to maintain their freshness.
Hack 3: Preserving Spices And Condiments
1. Roasting Spices
Roasting spices like cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds before storing them can help extend their shelf life. The roasting process removes any residual moisture, preventing the spices from becoming mouldy. Store the roasted spices in airtight containers to preserve their aroma and flavour.
2. Using Desiccants In Spice Jars
Placing desiccants, such as silica gel packets, in your spice jars can help absorb excess moisture. This keeps the spices dry and prevents clumping or mould growth. Ensure that the desiccant packets are food-safe and replace them periodically for optimal effectiveness.
3. Storing Pickles In Dry Jars
Pickles are prone to spoilage during the monsoon due to increased humidity. To keep them fresh, ensure that the jars used for storing pickles are completely dry before adding the pickles. Moisture in the jars can lead to fungal growth and spoilage. Additionally, store pickles in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.
Hack 4: Bread And Bakery Items
1. Refrigerating Bread
Bread tends to mould quickly during the monsoon. To prevent this, store bread in the refrigerator. The cool temperature slows down the growth of mould, keeping the bread fresh for a longer period. Ensure that the bread is tightly sealed in a plastic bag or container to prevent it from drying out.
2. Freezing Excess Bakery Items
If you have excess bakery items like cakes, pastries, or cookies, freezing them is an excellent way to extend their shelf life. Wrap the items in cling film or aluminium foil and store them in the freezer. When needed, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they will be as fresh as when you first bought them.
Hack 5: Dairy Products
1. Storing Dairy In The Coldest Part Of The Fridge
Dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese are highly perishable, especially during the monsoon. Store these items in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually the back or bottom shelves. This helps maintain a consistent low temperature, keeping the dairy products fresh and safe for consumption.
2. Using Airtight Containers For Cheese
Cheese can absorb odours from other foods in the refrigerator, affecting its taste. To prevent this, store cheese in airtight containers or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This also helps prevent the cheese from drying out and developing mould.
3. Boiling Milk Before Storing
Boiling milk before storing it in the refrigerator can help extend its shelf life. The boiling process kills any bacteria present in the milk, preventing it from spoiling quickly. Ensure that the boiled milk is cooled to room temperature before refrigeration.
4. Homemade Yoghurt Tips
If you make homemade yoghurt, use fresh, high-quality milk and ensure that all utensils used are thoroughly cleaned. Store the yoghurt in a cool, dry place, and avoid opening the container frequently to prevent contamination.
Keeping food fresh during the monsoon can be challenging, but with these simple hacks, you can ensure that your food stays safe and of high quality. Proper storage techniques and the use of natural preservatives can go a long way in maintaining the freshness of fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, bakery items, and dairy products.