Bread is a staple food in the majority of households, but numerous individuals encounter difficulties in maintaining its freshness and preventing the growth of mold. This leads to the frequently asked question, “Will bread go moldy in the refrigerator?” Determining the answer is not simple and it varies based on the kind of bread.
Different Types of Bread and their Shelf Life
White Bread: White bread is a staple in most households. It has a soft texture and is usually made with processed flour. When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, white bread can last for up to five days. However, if placed in the refrigerator, it may become stale and lose its texture.
Whole Wheat Bread: Whole wheat bread has a denser texture and is made with whole-grain flour. This type of bread is more nutritious than white bread. When stored at room temperature, whole wheat bread can last for up to seven days. In cooler conditions, such as the refrigerator, it can last up to two weeks.
Sourdough Bread: Sourdough bread is created using a sourdough starter that undergoes fermentation, resulting in its distinct and tangy taste. This type of bread has a crispy outer layer and a tender inner texture. When kept in a sealed container, it can remain fresh for about five days when stored at room temperature. If placed in the refrigerator, it can maintain its quality for up to two weeks.
Best Practices for Storing Bread
To extend the time that bread can be kept before it spoils, it is essential to ensure proper storage. Below are some recommended methods for storing bread effectively:
- Store bread in an airtight container: If you store bread in a container that is airtight, it will stay fresh and avoid becoming stale or damp, which may cause the growth of mold.
- Keep bread away from direct sunlight: Exposure to sunlight can lead to bread becoming stale and losing its texture.
- Freeze bread: If you do not have immediate plans to eat bread in the next few days, you may want to freeze it. Freezing bread can prolong its freshness for a period of up to three months.
FAQs
Is it OK to keep bread in the fridge?
Keeping bread in the fridge is generally fine, particularly for store-bought bread with added preservatives. However, if you refrigerate fresh bread, it can become stale much quicker compared to leaving it on the kitchen counter, up to six times faster.
Does mold grow slower in the fridge?
Indeed, the rate of mold development is decreased within the refrigerator. If you are concerned about your bread becoming moldy, the best and safest way to store it is by putting it in the refrigerator.
Is it OK to eat expired bread if it’s not moldy?
Eating bread that has passed its expiration date is usually fine, as long as there is no mold present. However, it may not maintain the same level of freshness or taste as it did when it was freshly baked.
Does putting bread in the fridge dry it out?
Keeping bread in the refrigerator can lead to it becoming dry, particularly when it is fresh. However, there is minimal impact or none at all on store-bought bread when stored in the fridge. The change in flavor is hardly noticeable for the majority of consumers.
How do you revive bread from the fridge?
To restore refrigerated bread, cover it with aluminum foil and place it in an oven that has been preheated to 300°F for 5-10 minutes. Another option is to microwave it with a cup of water for 10-20 seconds to reintroduce moisture before serving.