We've all been guilty at one time or another of hoarding unnecessary items. Are you aware of how many times you have searched through your pantry looking for food to donate to a food drive only to discover forgotten items? This doesn't only apply to food. People keep things longer than they should. Here are 9 kitchen items you should throw out.

1. Your Sponge

Number one on our list is probably the most surprising. Your sponge can be used to grow all sorts of bacteria, including grease, cheese, and other food particles.

The most difficult aspect of sponges is their difficulty in cleaning. Particulate and bacteria can get into the sponges' pores, where they remain moist for long periods. It is recommended that sponges be replaced often.

2. Food that stayed in the freezer too long

People began to buy food in bulk to save money on grocery trips. This increased demand for chest freezers as well as long-term food storage solutions. While chest freezers keep food safe and cold for many months, there will be times when you need to purge the contents from your chest freezer.

Food that has been frozen for too long can lead to bacteria. The food will become dry and have freezer burns over time. This can lead to a decrease in quality. When you shop, move any old items to the top of your chest freezer. Then place the new items towards the bottom. This will reduce food waste.

3. Spices from the Old World

Have you ever tried complicated Tik-Tok recipe only to be disappointed? You might not have the right recipe. It is likely that the spices in your spice rack are out of date and don't provide enough flavor. It may be time for you to replace your spices if your dishes seem flat.

4. Utensils that are damaged or missing cutting boards

We learned from sponges that bacteria can get into tight spaces and are almost impossible to clean. It's time for you to replace your wood or composite cutting board if it is brittle and cracked. We recommend that you keep separate cutting boards for fresh and raw meat.

5. Non-stick Pans Broken and Scratched

Cooking is easy with a nonstick pan. The eggs glide easily from the pan onto the plate so that there are no broken yolks. This is an excellent reason to change your nonstick pan. However, there are other things you should consider. It won't work well if the pan is scratched. Alex Van Buren from Health.com says that some coatings like Teflon can emit fumes which can cause flu-like symptoms.

6. Use cooking oils

Cooking oils are extremely stable even after being opened. However, oil reserves must be replenished every few months. After being opened, cooking oil is only good for two to three months. It should be changed after that.

Rancid oil can have a funny, waxy or fermented odor. Cooking oils, however, have a natural sweet scent when they are fresh. To extend the oil's life, store it in glass, preferably opaque.

7. Tupperware and Other Plastic Storage Containers

You might be shocked at how many plastic containers that are not matched or complete take up valuable storage space in your kitchen. We recommend that you declutter your kitchen and cupboards every few months by sorting out your food storage and throwing away any lids that are not matching.

8. Condiments and Old Leftovers

Make sure to clean out your refrigerator of any spoiled food before you go grocery shopping. Also, check your fridge for any unopened leftovers. Are there foods that have stayed in your fridge for too long, and not helped you pay rent? Ask yourself if you can recall when it was made before you say, "I'm going eat that still!" It's likely that it is too old if you can't recall when it was cooked. You should eat leftovers within three to five days of cooking.

Condiments are another thing you should inspect in your refrigerator. You should get rid of any condiments that are less than one-eighth cup in volume and that have been sitting unopened for many months. Also, throw away any condiments that have separated and any condiments that are expired. Opened chicken broth can go bad within a week. Throw away any opened broth containers.

9. Baking Powder

Baking powder is essential for bakers. It loses effectiveness over time. Baking soda and baking powder both absorb moisture which can affect their effectiveness. You can test your baking powder to make sure it is safe. Add one to 1/3 cup hot water. The baking powder can still be used if the mixture bubbles. If the reaction is not satisfactory, it's time to make a change.

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By: Brittany Baxter
Title: Throw Away That Tupperware!–And 8 Other Items In Your Kitchen You Need To Get Rid Of ASAP
Sourced From: www.suggest.com/when-to-throw-away-tupperware-declutter-kitchen/2617896/
Published Date: Wed, 09 Feb 2022 23:45:00 +0000

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