Russians told the best way to store bread

Storing bread in plastic packaging increases the risk of mold, as it contributes to its faster development. Alexander Sysuev, an expert of the Department of Biotechnology and Industrial Pharmacy of RTU MIREA, in an interview with the portal Gazeta.ru, recommends using paper bags for storing bread.

According to Sysuev, plastic prevents air circulation and evaporation of moisture. When fresh or still warm bread is placed in a plastic bag, the moisture released from the crust remains inside. This creates favorable conditions with high humidity and temperature, contributing to the active reproduction of mold fungi and bacteria. Mold, as a microorganism, needs moisture, heat and nutrients to grow, and all of these components are present in bread. The plastic bag acts as a greenhouse, accelerating the growth of mold spores, which are inevitably present on bread from the moment it is produced due to contact with air, equipment, surfaces and hands.

Unlike plastic, a paper bag allows moisture and air to pass through, preventing condensation from accumulating. This helps to keep the bread surface dry, depriving the mold necessary for the rapid growth of a moist environment.

Paper also has the ability to absorb excess moisture from the surface of the crust, which further slows down the development of microorganisms. Another important aspect is temperature. If bread that has not yet cooled is placed in a plastic bag, the molding process is greatly accelerated due to the ideal environment created inside: heat, moisture and lack of ventilation. Therefore, experts advise to completely cool the bread before packaging. However, even cooled bread in plastic spoils faster: moisture stored in it makes it soft longer, while in a paper bag it stale sooner.

If the bread is purchased in a plastic bag, it is recommended to immediately transfer it to a paper bag, fabric bag or breadbox with ventilation holes. As a last resort, if there is no alternative, do not tie the plastic bag tightly to ensure air access.