In the last cheat sheet we learned. The housewife can make her life much easier by preventing them from appearing in the kitchen. It’s elementary: you need to properly store flour, cereals and.
pasta
For long-term storage, it is better to store cereals from the autumn harvest. Cereals and flour, like other products, have their own shelf life. For example, rice can be stored for about six months.
Prepare the cereal for storage: check for bugs to see if you bought them at the store.
What is the best way to store cereals, flour and pasta?
In the bag, fats oxidize and insects appear. Plastic bags are not at all suitable for long-term storage of pasta and cereals.
Bulk products are best stored in glass or ceramic jars. The vessel must be clean, so first you need to pour boiling water over the jar and dry thoroughly.
Before closing the jar, check the condition of the cereal or pasta and throw a bay leaf at the bottom to repel insects. For a 3-liter jar, 2-3 bay leaves are enough.
It is better not to seal the jar with a plastic lid, but to cover the top with a linen cloth or gauze, securing it with an elastic band. Any product must breathe.
Rice is also stored in a jar. First, you can put a fabric bag with salt in a glass or ceramic vessel. Salt absorbs excess moisture and odors. This way the product will last longer.
Before storage, flour should be sifted and stored in a thick linen bag. Before use, it is recommended to wash the bag in a strong saline solution and dry it so that the flour can be preserved longer. For 1 liter of water take 4 tbsp. spoons of salt. What is the best way to store cereals: in a glass or ceramic jar. At worst it will do plastic bottle
with screw cap.
Where is the best place to store cereals, flour and pasta?
Under the influence of light, the product deteriorates - oxidation occurs. Ideal for storing bulk products in a cool, dark, dry place.
It is better to place the can of cereal in the kitchen cabinet, but not up, where there is steam and humidity, but down, in a dry, dark place. Plus, it's cool down there. Cold will also help prevent the appearance of insects, so it is permissible to store cereals in the refrigerator.
A pantry is ideal for storing cereals, flour and pasta. Even in apartment buildings, special rooms for supplies, called “dark rooms,” are designed.
Where is the best place to store cereals: Cereals, flour and pasta are stored longest and best in a dry, dark, cool place.
How to protect cereals from bugs?
A bay leaf or a clove of garlic will help. save cereals, flour and pasta from an invasion of bugs. An unshakable rule: smells repel insects, salt takes away excess moisture.
Another way: put fresh cereal straight from the store into a vessel, and on top - a pad of mint chewing gum, close the lid. Cereal bugs do not like minty smells.
You can drive bugs out of, say, rice with cold. We take a bag of cereal and put it in the freezer for a day. They are frozen there, then the rice should be sorted. However, you need to remember that it is strictly not recommended to eat cereals after insects - larvae may remain in them, invisible to the eye.
Cereals and grains can be stored for quite a long time if certain conditions are created for them. Otherwise, the supplies may become a permanent home for various pests. This article will tell you how to properly store cereals at home, and what needs to be done to prevent bugs from infesting them.
How to choose
Before purchasing the cereal, you should carefully inspect it. Make sure it was in proper conditions on the store shelf. Check the humidity level and the tightness of closed packages.
The presence of lumps or dark spots among the grains, and even more so among various insects, indicates the low quality of the product. It is not worth buying such products. But you can only see this if the product is packaged in a transparent bag . If the packaging is made of paper or cardboard, there is nothing else left to do but check the release date of the product and its expiration date. It’s good if the cereal is not older than 2 - 4 months.
Storage conditions
Rules for storing cereals require keeping them at temperatures up to +10°C. If you keep them in the kitchen, the lowest shelf of the kitchen pencil case will best suit the storage conditions. It should be furthest away from the stove and other heat sources.
The storage temperature of cereals should not exceed +20°C, and air humidity – 70%.
Oatmeal, semolina, pearl barley and millet require a cooler storage location. In warm conditions they can quickly become rancid. Therefore, dark pantries with temperatures up to +5°C are considered the ideal option for storing these products.
Based on the above, an appropriate question would be: can cereal be stored in the refrigerator? Yes, you can, if there is an appropriate temperature there. In this case, the product must be in a hermetically sealed container. But not every refrigerator has free space. Therefore, cereals should be stored this way if there are no other options. For example, if the situation occurs in a country house where there are rodents, storing cereals in the refrigerator is quite justified.
The product is also placed in the freezer to prevent the appearance of insects. And in places such as basements or cellars, they should not be kept due to the increased level of humidity.
What to store cereals in to prevent bugs from getting in
Housewives who do not have experience continue to store cereals in factory packaging, which is a serious mistake. Once the package is opened, various pests infest it. And it becomes inconvenient to store the bulk product in this form.
So how to store cereals to prevent bugs from getting in? There are several options:
- IN glass or plastic container with a tight lid. There are a large variety of different jars and containers for storing bulk products on sale. Therefore, everyone can choose a container for cereals based on their needs.
- Containers made of plastic Quite comfortable, practical to use and easy to clean in the dishwasher. Due to their low weight, the load on hanging kitchen cabinets will be small.
- Metal cans - more solid and durable, but they have a drawback: if moisture gets on them, they can rust. Similar stainless steel products are more reliable in this regard, but they also cost much more.
- Glass storage containers are quite convenient and beautiful, easy to clean and reliably protect supplies from moisture and insects. In addition, they have a variety of color and design solutions, which makes them an interior detail.
- They have the same characteristics ceramic containers, which also reliably protect the cereal from bright light. And which one to choose - everyone decides for himself.
- Storing cereals in the kitchen can occur in canvas bags , which allow products to “breathe”. To prevent insects from infesting them, the fabric is first soaked in a concentrated solution (1:4) of salt, treated with hot steam and dried well.
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Storage in bags will be more reliable if you place them in a closed plastic container.
To cereal, while in glass containers, does not “suffocate”, instead of a plastic lid, it can be covered with fabric (canvas, linen) in 2 - 3 layers, and then secured to the neck with an elastic band.
Shelf life of various cereals
Products of any kind must be stored under the same conditions. But at the same time, each of them has different terms suitability, which on average is:
- oatmeal - no longer than 4 - 5 months;
- millet – up to 9 months. (in summer – up to 6 months);
- semolina And corn flour– 8 – 9 months;
- wheat of various processing (Artek, bulgur) - 12 - 14 months;
- barley groats – 14 – 16 months;
- pearl barley, buckwheat (retina), polished rice - up to 18 months;
- split peas and (kernels) – 20 months;
- polished peas – up to 24 months;
- steamed rice - up to 2.5 years.
You can store cereals that boil quickly for 6 to 12 months. (depending on the type of packaging and processing). It must be remembered that these terms are established from the moment of production, and not purchase of the product.
Pests in cereals
Insects that settle in cereals make it unsuitable for consumption, as they leave toxic waste from their vital activity in it. The taste of such products changes. In addition, their use can lead a person to severe eating disorders and allergic reactions.
Given these facts, you should organize the storage of your reserves more responsibly. Contaminated cereal remains should be disposed of immediately.
After pests have been found in one of the containers, you should carefully check all the others. Containers containing spoiled products must be thoroughly washed with detergent and scalded with boiling water. It is advisable to wipe the surfaces of the cabinets with a solution of vinegar (1 tbsp per 1 liter of water).
Porridge is an important component of the human diet, containing a large amount useful substances. But for them to be beneficial, you need to know where and at what temperature, and also what is the best way to store cereals. Be sure to monitor humidity levels and protect food from insects.
The cereal is suitable for long-term storage; it can be used at the place of production or transported to different distances, including long distances.
In the practice of storing cereals, it is necessary to take into account the same properties as those of the grain mass. Cereals are stored at cereal factories, warehouses and bases of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, and less often - at bases, warehouses and trade and public catering enterprises.
Used for storing cereals various ways. The oldest and most common method of storage is in textile containers made from various fabrics. Linen, jute, cotton and mixed bags with a capacity of 50-70 kg are used. Also, cereals are packaged in small containers of 1-3 kg, stored in boxes or boxes on pallets or racks.
Storage of cereals can be carried out both in heated and unheated warehouses, but it must be dry, clean, well-lit and ventilated, not infested with pests of grain stocks, separately from sharp-smelling and perishable goods. Optimal environmental parameters: relative air humidity 60-70%, temperature from 5 to 15 °C.
Transportation of cereals over long distances is carried out in railway cars and vehicles. When transporting by rail, it is necessary to use absolutely dry, clean wagons that do not have any foreign odors for loading products. In wagons, sacks are placed on pallets at a distance of 0.5 m from the walls, leaving a passage between the stacks.
During rail transportation, the natural loss of cereals should not exceed 0.09% for a distance of up to 1000 km and 0.13% for a distance of 1000 to 2000 km.
When transporting by road, it is also necessary to use dry, clean vehicles in which no pungent-smelling substances were transported, and conditions of soaking or contamination must be excluded.
Transporting cereals in containers is associated with large costs, packaging costs, the use of physical labor, and sometimes leads to spoilage and contamination of products. The transition to bulk storage and transportation according to the scheme: dump bin of a cereal plant -> wagon -> tank - receiving hopper of a packaging factory can provide greater savings and better preservation of cereals.
Packaging and labeling
Cereals are usually packaged in jute, flax-jute or cotton bags with a net weight of 65 to 70 kg. Each of them has a marking label made of paper or cardboard, which indicates the name of the product, its type, grade, net weight, production date and standard number. A significant part of the cereal is packaged directly at cereal factories in single-layer paper or cellophane bags of 900 g.
Grains and cereals can be stored very for a long time. But if the necessary conditions are not met, they can become a habitat for small bugs, worms and other insects. To prevent this from happening, the housewife needs to know where to store cereals at home and how to do it correctly.
Selection of capacity
Some inexperienced housewives store purchased bulk products in their original packaging. And this is their main mistake. Lack of airtightness is the main reason for the appearance of insects. In addition, storing cereals in such containers is very inconvenient. Over time, the package becomes unusable and its contents may fall apart.
To prevent bugs from getting in, it is best to store cereal stocks in glass jars or special containers with airtight lids. A wide variety of containers are sold on store shelves, and every housewife will be able to choose a container to suit her taste.
Plastic containers are lightweight, practical and convenient. When using them, the load on the cabinet will be minimal. Metal cans are beautiful and durable, but have one major drawback: they can develop rust stains. Similar stainless steel products do not have this drawback, but they are also more expensive than other containers. Glass containers are convenient and beautiful, and have a variety of designs. Ceramic containers are considered the best containers for storing cereals. They are airtight, practical, and pleasing to the eye with an attractive design. However, which container to choose is up to you to decide.
Shelf life
Each cereal has its own shelf life. Rice stocks should not be kept for more than 1.5 years. Keep it in closed banks or linen bags in a cool, dry place. To prevent bugs from getting into the cereal, place 2-3 metal bottle caps or garlic in the container.
The shelf life of instant cereals depends on the packaging and technology of their production and ranges from 6 to 12 months
Millet does not lose its taste for only 4 months. If the cereal is stored longer, then before preparing the porridge, fill it with a solution of boiling water and soda (1 tsp of powder is needed for 1 liter of water), rinse thoroughly and dry.
It is advisable to use up buckwheat within 20 months. To extract the maximum flavor and benefits from it, pre-fry it in a frying pan or in the oven.
The shelf life of semolina is 14 months. If after long-term storage it has lost taste qualities, try frying it. Habitual semolina will be transformed.
Oatmeal can't boast long term suitability. They must be used up within 4–5 months. Especially if the cereal contains additives: fruits, berries, spices or grains.
The shelf life of instant cereals depends on the packaging and technology of their production and ranges from 6 to 12 months.
Rules
- Be sure to pour purchased bulk products into special food containers.
- The storage location should be dry and dark, with good ventilation.
- Optimal storage conditions are temperature from –5 to +5 °C and humidity 60–70%. Make sure that the maximum temperature does not exceed +18 °C.
- Do not keep strong-smelling foods (smoked meats, spices, etc.) near cereals.
Folk tricks
People's ingenuity will help preserve cereal stocks in proper quality. To prevent bugs and other insects from infesting bulk products, be sure to heat them in a frying pan after purchase or keep them in the freezer for a day directly in the packaging from the manufacturer.
Some housewives prefer to put garlic cloves, bay leaves or lemon peels. Others use pieces of foil or ordinary tablespoons instead of strong odors. It is enough to put them in the cereal, and the bugs will bypass your supplies.
To protect rice from the musty smell that can arise from long-term storage, place a pod of red hot pepper in the container.
In winter, bulk products can be moved to the balcony. Low temperatures will not only protect them from bugs, but will also significantly extend their shelf life.
Maintaining order in the kitchen is not so easy - as a rule, the kitchen set cannot cope with dishes, appliances and other utensils. But we have a solution: with the help of little tricks you will not only clean up your kitchen, but also save interior space. Read and get started!
Idea No. 1: strictly vertical
A vertical storage system is the best solution for a small kitchen. Compact shelves will not take up much space, but will easily accommodate all your dishes.
Idea #2: Out of sight
And pull-out mesh baskets inside kitchen cabinets make a great place to secretly hide cleaning supplies.
Idea No. 3: in limbo
In addition, do not forget about hanging mesh baskets, which are convenient for storing not only cups, but also vegetables and fruits.
Idea No. 4: side by side horizontally
The functionality of the kitchen can be easily increased with the help of roof rails. Today, many different modules, hooks, and special jars for spices are produced for them.
Idea #5: Side by Side
There are never too many shelves - by purchasing several additional mesh baskets in chrome color, you will forever solve the problem of storing dishes.
Idea #6: in plain sight
It's not easy to put all the pots and pans in one kitchen drawer! It's better to hang them next to the hood or on the wall near the door. A special perforated wall panel will help you with this.
Idea No. 7: original approach
The space in the very corner of the kitchen is quite difficult to use. Special pull-out racks and corner drawers of a special design will help solve this problem.
Idea No. 8: cleanliness and order
Use drawer dividers to make them more functional. Now it will be much easier to maintain order!
Idea #9: gravity
Attach your knives to the wall—literally. A special magnetic bar will show them who's boss!
Idea No. 10: Spice House
You can also store jars of spices on magnets. Attach them, for example, to the wall of a refrigerator or the inside door of a cabinet.
Idea #11: Take the heights
Use special racks for pans and pots - this way you can use the entire space of the drawer and you won’t have to sort them out before each cooking.
Idea No. 12: successfully hooked
And bulky lids from frying pans and pots can be conveniently stored using simple crossbars: attach them to the free surface of the wall in a place convenient for you.
Idea No. 13: along the wall
Metal pocket shelves will help you place lids on the wall of your kitchen cabinet. If the cabinet is completely occupied, such a shelf can be placed outside the cabinet.
Idea No. 14: everything in its place!
Inside the cabinet it is convenient to store not only dishes, but also narrow boxes of pasta and dough. Just attach a vertical storage unit to the door - and it will fully justify its new place.
Idea No. 15: shabby chic style
And in order not to reach into the far corners of the kitchen for rolls of foil or film, hang them directly on the wall - using an old hanger.
Idea No. 16: in the access zone
Remember how convenient it is to view postcards or small souvenirs on turntables in a store. Add several mobile shelves to one of the cabinets - and all the jars and containers with spices will always be at hand.
Idea #17: Under Control
Tired of cleaning out crumbs from your candy drawer? Solve this problem once and for all by pinching the cookie packages with a regular clothespin.
Idea No. 18: Helper shortcuts
To no longer waste time looking for salt or sugar, label the lids of the jars in which you store cereals and grains.
Idea No. 19: complete order
Organizing recipes will help speed up the cooking process. No more rushing around the kitchen: put all the recipes in one place, or better yet, in alphabetical order.
Idea #20: Practical Example
Wall cabinets have too little space! Attach hooks to shelves and hang from them coffee cups. And store glasses under shelves - upside down.
Idea #21: Stand in a Line
Long, narrow shelves easily attach to the wall and are ideal for storing spices and a variety of bottles of oils.
Idea No. 22: a place in the sun
At the very top of the kitchen unit you need to put something that you rarely use. For example, let it be baskets with alcohol or dishes for preparing holiday dishes.
Idea No. 23: surprise rack
And various modules, shelving and racks will help to use even the narrowest and most inconvenient places. For example, pull-out kitchen cabinets.
Idea No. 24: for the little ones
Numerous spices belong in Tic-Tac containers. Just don't forget to sign them!
Idea No. 25: spectacular decor
Dishes can be stored not only in closed cabinets, but also on narrow open shelves. Let your favorite set become an original kitchen decor!
Idea No. 26: basket for boards
No more cutting boards will end up in the sink when you introduce them to a space-saving basket. Choose models made from artificial rattan, a moisture-resistant material.
Idea #27: Budget Idea
Do not throw away tin cans and rusted rakes, because if properly treated, they can be useful for storing kitchen accessories - spoons, forks and spatulas.
Idea #28: Smart Approach
And you can make compact magnetic shelves for small items with your own hands. You will need small baskets from the hardware store, magnets and superglue.
Idea #29: Go home!
By purchasing several plastic containers for sorting food, you will not only free up space in your refrigerator, but also make it easier to clean.
Idea #30: little tricks
Don’t forget to use the lower parts of the cabinets - it’s convenient to store cereals and grains, as well as materials for creativity and handicrafts, in drawers or baskets directly under the set.
