Keep your food fresh in the heat
Food preservation is an essential activity followed in every household. Unfortunately, the heat of summer spoils the food. It is necessary to keep it at a lower temperature to keep the food preserved and fresh. High-degree temperatures spoil the food items and make them stale. Cooling and freezing are the best ways of food preservation.
Storing the food in a refrigerator is a conventional method to keep it cool and fresh. Cooling the food in refrigerators prevents the growth of microorganisms and other foodborne pathogens. Refrigerating systems have ice-crystallisation, phase change, and freezing time that positively affect the food quality. Whether you choose a Whirlpool fridge or a Samsung fridge, you will be guaranteed longer, safe consumption periods and let us enjoy the leftovers later. And buying a double door fridge also ensures enough storage capacity for preserving all your leftovers with ease.
Freezing techniques to follow for preserving food:
These cooling and freezing techniques are essential for summer to avoid food wastage.
- Packaging: A good packaging process removes excess air and prevents freezer burn. Freezer burn generally deteriorates the taste of the food and its texture. Thus, pack the food in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Temperature settings: Low temperatures help maintain food quality and safety. Keep the temperature to 0°F (-18°C) or lower for efficient food preservation.
- Freeze at Peak Freshness: Freeze fruits and vegetables at their peak ripeness for the best flavour and nutrient retention.
- Quick Freezing: For maintaining the flavour of the food, quick freezing is effective. Keep the chopped vegetables on a baking sheet to avoid clumping of food.
- Avoid overloading: Too much stuff in the compact space of a refrigerator can prevent it from circulating the temperature equally. Ensure to keep spaces between the containers for adequate air circulation.
- Thawing: Thawing the food at a low temperature can cause bacteria. Hence, when it’s time to use the food, thaw it safely by shifting it from the freezer to the fridge, under cold running water, or in the microwave using the defrost setting. Rapid thawing helps maintain quality.
Tools for freezing food:
Good tools and containers are essential for food preservation in refrigerators.
- Airtight containers: Airtight containers create barriers against air and prevent freezer burn. So, these containers are the ideal choice for storing sauces and soups.
- Vacuum Sealers: Similar to airtight containers, vacuum cleaners remove the air to maintain the food quality.
- Freezer-safe bags: The durable zip-top freezer bags prevent moisture loss of fruits, vegetables, and meat.
- Plastic Wrap and Aluminium Foil: These wraps are essential for cooling the individual portions. It minimizes air exposure.
- Baking sheets: The baking sheets help freeze items like berries or cookie dough.
- Freezer Thermometer: It helps in keeping track of the temperature.
By following this guide, you can win over food wastage and make the best food preservation in summer.
