Many people are accustomed to arranging products in the refrigerator as space allows, but for the dairy category this approach is critical. The specificity of these products lies in their live microflora, which instantly reacts to the slightest fluctuations in temperature and neighborhood with other goods. Proper storage not only prolongs the life of purchases, but also guarantees their health safety.
Temperature and location
The most common mistake is storage pasteurized milk in the refrigerator door. This is the warmest place, where the temperature is constantly changing when opened. To prevent the product from souring prematurely, it should be placed on the lower shelvesIn the lower shelves, close to the back wall, where the cold is kept stable.
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Hard cheeses feel better in the freshness area or on the middle shelves.
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Butter quickly absorbs foreign odors, so it should be kept in a sealed container away from fish and spices.
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Yogurts and kefir are sensitive to light, which destroys some of the vitamins, so it is better to leave them in their original packaging.
Proper packaging for long-lasting freshness
The original packaging is often not the best option once opened. For example, cottage cheese in an open packet will quickly become cherished and absorb odors. It is recommended to put it in a glass or ceramic container with a tight lid.
For cheese The ideal solution is parchment paper or wax cloths. A plastic bag is the worst choice as it suffocates the product, leading to mold and an unpleasant sticky residue. Sour cream after use, it is important to smooth it gently with a spoon so that whey does not accumulate on the surface and cause spoilage.
Neighborhood food and hygiene
Microbiological cleanliness is the key to ensuring that dairy products last their intended life. It is never a good idea to leave a spoon in a jar of sour cream or drink milk straight from the packet, as bacteria from the mouth or from dirty utensils will start the fermentation process in a matter of hours.
It’s also important to keep an eye on what’s lying around. Sour milk drinks actively absorb the aromas of onions, garlic and smoked meats. If your refrigerator does not have airtight zones, use vacuum containers for strongly odorous foods.
Following simple temperature control rules and using quality packaging materials can significantly increase the shelf life of dairy products at home.
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