Bread

The expiration of bread will depend largely on its store status. Unopened pre-packaged bread can last for 5-7 days past the best-by-date printed on the package. Once opened, it typically lasts another 5-7 days, but always make sure to reseal it in an airtight bag or container to keep it fresh. When stored in the freezer, it can extend the life of the bread for 3-6 months. If you've made the bread at home, without any preservatives, it will only last for about 2-3 days on the counter.

To tell if bread has gone bad, you need to use a combination of your senses. Firstly, check the bread visually. If you notice any mold or unusual discoloration, it's time to throw it out. The presence of mold can be in any color (green, white, kind of glowing), sometimes you can spot it on the surface, sometimes you'll see it when you slice the bread. Secondly, the smell can also indicate staleness - if it has a sour, off smell it's a clear sign it's spoiled. Lastly, the texture can also give clues - if it's become overly hard and dry, or sticky and wet, it's likely past its best.

• Always store bread in a cool, dry place free from direct sunlight. • If the bread is store-bought, keep it in its original packaging which is designed to keep it fresh. Once you've opened it, make sure to close the package tightly after each use. • For homemade bread or bread purchased in a paper bag, transfer it to a plastic bag for longer shelf life - but only after completely cooled down, as warmth can cause condensation in the bag leading to quicker molding. • If you won't consume the whole bread loaf in a few days, consider freezing a part of it. Before freezing, it's best to slice the bread so you can defrost individual slices as needed. To defrost, just pop the slices in a toaster. You can also leave them on the kitchen counter for a couple of hours till they are ready to eat.