After making the effort to trek to the grocery store or bakery for a fresh loaf, you've prepared your sandwich and wrapped up the remaining bread. Now, the question is: where should you store it? Should it go in the pantry, fridge, or freezer? The answer depends on how soon you intend to consume it and your preference for slice softness.
"Keeping bread in the fridge is a secure method that can decelerate the aging process," noted Lorene Sauro, a nutritionist and food expert with certifications in health and food safety, in conversation with Food and Wine. "Yet, because of a phenomenon called starch retrogradation, this practice can alter the bread's texture, leading to dryness and crumbliness."
Shelly Balls, a registered dietitian nutritionist with ServSafe Manager Certification, reiterated Sauro's observations. She further mentioned that studies have shown refrigerating bread alters the starch structure, leading to crystallization that can result in a firmer texture without posing any health risks.
Instead of refrigeration, both Balls and Sauro recommend storing bread at room temperature in a cool, dry area, as Sauro believes this method "is ideal for ensuring safety and quality." This is particularly relevant for crusty bread, as Balls pointed out that the negative impact of refrigeration is more noticeable in this type of bread, emphasizing the importance of room-temperature storage.
However, the distinction in storage methods may not be very noticeable with mass-produced, commercially made bread. "When it comes to commercially made breads, the taste difference between refrigeration and room temperature is quite subtle," Balls explained. "If you opt to refrigerate your bread, ensure it is stored in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out."
If you do not intend to use the remaining loaf for a while, freezing is a viable choice.
"If the bread won't be consumed promptly, freezing it becomes the next favorable alternative," Sauro explained. "Freezing effectively pauses the aging process, which resumes once the bread is brought back to room temperature. It is important to store the bread in a container or plastic bag to prevent freezer burn." However, it's advisable not to leave it in the freezer for an extended period, as it can lead to freezer burn and diminish the taste of the bread.