An M&S food expert has shared a simple trick to keep bread fresh for up to three months without going mouldy. Bread is a kitchen essential, but it is one of the most wasted foods in the UK, with countless loaves going mouldy before they are eaten, largely because many people are unaware of the best way to store them.
Bread is particularly prone to spoiling during the summer months, as warmer temperatures accelerate mould growth. While bread bins are popular, they can become extremely humid, creating the perfect breeding ground for mould.
Heather Taylor from Marks and Spencer Food revealed a far simpler method: using clingfilm. She said: "Bread is one of the most-wasted ingredients and freezes brilliantly. Try halving your sourdough loaf then wrapping one in cling film then freezing."
Many households are reluctant to freeze bread, fearing it will lose taste or turn soggy. However, wrapping bread tightly in clingfilm forms an airtight seal that minimises moisture loss and reduces exposure to air, helping maintain texture and freshness.
How to Freeze and Thaw Bread Using the M&S Method
First, freeze your bread as soon as you get home from the supermarket. Be sure to slice the bread prior to freezing, making it simpler to remove only what you need. Wrap the bread firmly in cling film, squeezing out as much air as possible. For storage beyond a few weeks, double-wrap it.
To defrost, leave it wrapped in cling film at room temperature for a couple of hours. If making toast, pop slices straight into the toaster from frozen. Bread can keep for up to three months in the freezer, reducing food waste and saving money.
