Mold Zapper Keeps Bread Fresh for 2 Months

Photo (Image credit: Luke Hansen / Stock.XCHNG)

Food waste is a big problem as world food demand grows. About 40 percent of all food in the United States is tossed out. Meanwhile, global food prices have doubled in recent years due to growing food shortages. So avoiding waste would seem a worthy goal.

A new technique from U.S. company Microzap may keep bread mold-free for 60 days. According to the BBC:

The bread is zapped in a sophisticated microwave array which kills the spores that cause the problem.

Nearly a third of all bread purchased in the UK is discarded, the BBC writes. Water trapped in plastic wrapping contributes to good mold-growing conditions.

Other researchers have tested cinnamon oil and other known antimicrobials as ways to extend the life of bread.

Live Science Staff
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