Have you been familiar with proper food preservation methods?

In daily life, we often have the habit of stocking up on food. However, many people do not know how to properly store food. Improperly stored food can lose its nutrients and even lead to food poisoning. Therefore, let's explore together with Soumaki the methods of food preservation.

The harmful effects of improper food preservation

Our habit when we bring home groceries from the supermarket is to immediately put everything in the refrigerator. However, most people are unaware that when we place food in the refrigerator, microorganisms become dormant. And when we don't store them properly, these microorganisms can easily invade and pose a risk of food poisoning.

The subjective negligence of proper food preservation leads to two extremely important hazards:

1. Food poisoning

There have been numerous cases of food poisoning, some even resulting in death. For example, certain foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products can produce toxic substances. Spoiled food can generate toxic compounds such as histamine & aflatoxin, which pose a health hazard if consumed. Rotten or moldy food can cause digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.

2. Loss of valuable nutrients

Improper food preservation not only results in unpredictable consequences but also primarily contributes to significant nutrient loss. When food is not properly preserved, the nutrients within it are susceptible to oxidation or decomposition 

Pocket the principles of food preservation properly

To start proper preservation, first, you need to adhere to some universally applicable principles when using a refrigerator for food storage. The initial steps are listed below, along with the following notes:

1. Principles of organization

• The freezer compartment is for meat, fish, and other perishable items. You should divide them into smaller portions and store them in plastic bags or plastic containers, arranging them neatly

• The lower compartment should be used for cooked food or ingredients like butter. Remember to place them in separate containers. Additionally, place leftover cooked food in the upper shelves, while keeping uncooked items on the lower shelves

• The vegetable drawer is intended for storing vegetables, root crops, and fruits as it provides the appropriate temperature.

• The door compartment is the area that receives the least cold air, so it is suitable for storing spices, sauces, and other items that can be stored for a longer period.

2. Some notes/points to consider

Read more: Vitamins and minerals - essential sources of micronutrients

Methods for preserving various types of food

Learn how to preserve each type of food with Soumaki:

1. Freezing eggs

Eggs can also be frozen for storage. There are two methods to freeze eggs:

• Crack the eggs and separate the yolks and whites, then pour them into plastic containers or food storage bags before placing them in the freezer. This freezing method is very convenient for baking, pastry-making, and offers great convenience.

• Additionally, eggs can be stored in the freezer compartment, but it's not recommended to place them directly in the refrigerator upon purchasing. When raw eggs are frozen, the liquid inside expands and can cause the shells to crack. As a result, the eggs may spoil and there is a risk of bacterial contamination

2. Preserving meat and poultry

2.1. Storage times for various types of meat and poultry

2.2. Temperature for storing meat and poultry

To store meat and poultry, whether in the refrigerated compartment or the freezer compartment of a refrigerator, you need to wrap the meat carefully to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial contamination. Plastic food wrap is commonly used to tightly cover various types of meat.

However, if you are placing the meat in the freezer compartment, you need to wrap it with multiple layers to prevent air from entering and to avoid excessive ice build-up. When storing meat in the refrigerated compartment, it is important to maintain the appropriate temperature. The recommended temperature for the refrigerator compartment is around 2°C. For the freezer compartment, the temperature should be set at approximately -25°C.

3. Storing vegetables in the refrigerator

3.1. Shelf life of various types of vegetables

3.2. Temperature and considerations for storing vegetables in the refrigerator

• Storing vegetables in the refrigerator at a temperature of 1-4 degrees Celsius is preferable as it helps to preserve them better. The growth of bacteria is typically more pronounced at temperatures above 4 degrees 

• Do not wash vegetables before putting them in the refrigerator: Excessive moisture can cause vegetables to become discolored and spoil easily.For root vegetables such as turnips, carrots, and parsnips, it is recommended to trim off the tops before storing them in the refrigerator

• Using plastic bags for storage: It is advisable to wrap vegetables in plastic bags to prevent water loss, especially for items without an outer skin.

4. Utilizing leftover food

To effectively store leftover food, you should cool it down within 2 hours, then divide it into small portions. Only use the leftover food within 2 days. When reheating the food, make sure it reaches a temperature of 70°C (160°F) for 2 minutes.

Considerations when thawing food:

• Always thaw leftover frozen food by placing it in the refrigerator or using a microwave

• Food stored in the freezer, such as ice cream and frozen desserts, should not be refrozen or thawed and frozen again.

Conclusion