Wood chopsticks are a popular choice for many families because they are economical, safe, and environmentally friendly. However, after using them for a while, they may develop black spots or mold. The main reason for this is improper storage by users, which can be dangerous as bacteria can enter the body through food. This can lead to potential health issues during family meals.
Here are some tips on how to properly store chopsticks to prevent mold and protect your family’s health.
Preparing chopsticks before use
To prevent mold and moisture in new wooden chopsticks, you should rinse them with warm water mixed with salt and then dry them under sunlight until completely dry. When drying, make sure to spread them evenly on a flat surface to ensure even drying. Choose a time when the sun is not too strong to prevent the chopsticks from fading. Once the chopsticks are dry, you can safely use them.
Tips for storing wooden chopsticks without mold, safe for the whole family’s health.
Avoid soaking chopsticks in water for too long
Absolutely do not soak the chopsticks in water for too long. Many families have the habit of not washing dishes immediately after meals and leave them for a long time or overnight before washing. This habit is extremely harmful, not only for wooden chopsticks but also for pots, pans, and dishes. Bacteria can easily develop during that time. When soaking chopsticks in water with oil residues or leftover food, the bacteria from the water can easily penetrate the chopsticks, causing mold and reducing the quality of the chopsticks.
Thoroughly clean the chopsticks after use
After using the chopsticks, remember to thoroughly clean them with dish soap to remove leftover food and grease. If you don’t clean them properly, it creates favorable conditions for bacteria and mold to thrive. If the grease or food particles are stuck tightly to the chopsticks and are difficult to remove, you can boil the chopsticks in water with a little salt and a few slices of lemon to dissolve the grease and food particles and clean the bacteria.
Avoid scrubbing the wooden chopstick body vigorously
Many people have the habit of vigorously scrubbing wooden chopsticks, even using a metal scrubber to scrub them, thinking that it will clean all the dirt. However, this action will create scratches, which will become a breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, you should stop the habit of vigorously scrubbing or using hard metal cleaning tools on chopsticks.
Thoroughly clean the chopsticks after use to prevent mold.
Expose chopsticks to sunlight
After thoroughly cleaning the wooden chopsticks, it is best to expose them to sunlight. On rainy days or in the evening, place them in a well-ventilated area and avoid contact with damp places, as bacteria can easily grow and develop in such environments.
Sanitize the chopstick holder
The chopstick holders can also be a cause of moldy chopsticks that you should not ignore. Always clean and dry the chopstick holder regularly to ensure there is no stagnant water that provides an environment for bacteria to grow.
Replace the chopsticks regularly
Many families have the habit of not replacing chopsticks, only replacing them when the chopsticks are too old. In fact, bamboo and wooden chopsticks should only be used for 4-5 months, so you should replace them regularly, especially when the chopsticks have black spots or white mold.
In addition, if the chopsticks show any of the following signs, you should immediately discard them: darkened, changed color, cracked, grooved, or have an odor.
Wipe chopsticks with a clean cloth after each use
During the rainy season, use a dry cloth to wipe the chopsticks clean to prevent them from remaining moist, which can lead to bacteria and mold growth during food consumption. Avoid using a damp cloth to wipe, as it will make the chopsticks moist and transfer bacteria from the cloth to the chopsticks.
Source: Vtc.vn