An expert has shared that many people are likely storing milk incorrectly. With budgets stretched and energy bills still high, many of us are looking for smarter ways to cut costs.
But with households still responsible for a huge 60% of the nation’s food waste, a lot of money is ending up quite literally in the bin. Now, Andrew Wright from kitchen appliance retailers Cookology, has shared how people may not be keeping their milk in its optimal place.
Mr Wright explains that while some people keep their milk in the fridge door, this makes it more likely to turn sour more quickly than if it’s kept inside the main fridge. This is due to temperature fluctuations that occur when the door is opened and closed.
The expert also explained that the amount of food inside a fridge can reduce its operating efficiency.
Mr Wright said: “Overfilling can lead to blocked vents which can damage your fridge. However, underfilling your fridge can also cause problems. Food naturally absorbs cold air, so when your fridge is underfilled the excess space causes your fridge work harder to stop food going off.
“For optimum fridge performance, it’s best to keep it around three-quarters full. This allows air can circulate freely and there’s enough food to cool other produce down.”
On top of this, it’s important that food is stored “in the right way”. Mr Wright explains: “The lowest shelf should always be used to store raw meats and seafood; this helps avoid cross-contamination in the event of a leak.
“The middle shelf is perfect for yoghurts and cheeses – even butter which, despite some debate, should always be kept in the fridge – even if it is more easily spreadable when kept at room temperature. Use the top shelf for anything that is ready to eat straight out of the fridge, for example, cooked meats, or leftovers.
“Use the drawers to store vegetables and fruits. Another tip is to load your fridge in a way where the food with the longest use-by date is stored towards the back to ensure food waste is kept to a minimum.”
You should also ensure your fridge door seal is maintained, and keep your fridge between 3C and 5C.
