Nutritionist Mihaela Bilic warns against using biodegradable bags for food storage

Nutritionist Mihaela Bilic has issued a warning regarding the use of biodegradable bags for the medium or long-term storage of food. While she acknowledges these bags are an excellent ecological alternative for transporting groceries from the store to the home, she notes that they can accelerate food degradation when used for storage.

According to Bilic, biodegradable packaging can develop a sharp, unpleasant odor that food quickly absorbs. Furthermore, their permeability to vapors and uneven moisture retention can create a suffocating environment. This leads to vegetables and fruits losing firmness and becoming soft within days, bread developing surface mold due to condensation, and deli meats altering their original taste.

To prevent food waste and maintain freshness, Bilic recommends specific storage methods:

• Fruits and vegetables: Use classic thin plastic bags, left slightly open or perforated, to allow for controlled moisture and slow respiration in the refrigerator. • Bread and bakery products: Use porous paper bags or clean cotton cloths to ensure optimal air circulation and maintain crust texture. • General rule: Biodegradable bags should be used exclusively for transport and removed immediately upon arriving home.