The kitchen, the heart of the home and one of the spaces where most time is spent. However, as a result, various items tend to accumulate and be forgotten in the sink, cabinets, and drawers. Some items are so misplaced that you don't even know where they are, making it difficult to find what you need at the moment, which can be frustrating.

How about organizing unnecessary items in the kitchen as the new year approaches? A tidy and well-organized kitchen not only increases cooking efficiency but also brings a sense of relaxation to daily life. Here are seven kitchen items that Eating Well, an American health-focused media outlet, recommends you must discard before the new year.

 

1. Smelly sponge

According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology in 2022, it was explained that kitchen sponges used are likely to harbor harmful bacteria. Sponges can be sterilized by boiling or microwaving (but sponges containing metal should never be placed in the microwave), however, the USDA warns that these methods are not 100% safe. Therefore, it is better to replace sponges frequently. Especially if they smell strange or feel contaminated, it is best to discard them immediately.

2. Worn-out cutting board

Using separate cutting boards for meat and seafood, vegetables, and bread is a safe way to prevent cross-contamination. However, over time, deep cuts in the cutting board can facilitate bacterial growth. Experts recommend replacing the cutting board immediately. If you prefer wooden cutting boards, choosing a bamboo cutting board is advisable. Bamboo is harder and less absorbent than regular wooden boards, reducing the risk of bacterial proliferation. Solid cutting boards can be washed in a dishwasher, but glued wooden cutting boards may crack, so it is best to wash them by hand.

 

3. Old cooking utensils

Cracked or fractured kitchen utensils are dangerous. Small pieces may fall off wooden spatulas and mix into food, or rubber materials may melt into hot liquids. This not only poses safety risks but also raises hygiene concerns. The gaps in old utensils are prone to bacterial growth, so it is advisable to replace them frequently. In particular, black plastic utensils may contain recycled plastic from electronic devices, which could lead to harmful chemicals leaching into food.

 

4. Old spices

Spices lose their flavor and aroma when stored for a long time. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), whole spices can stay fresh for up to 4 years, while ground spices can remain fresh for up to 3 years. Old spices make it difficult to achieve proper flavor in dishes, so it is better to replace them. When purchasing spices, it is wise to buy in small quantities or write the purchase date on the label.

 

5. Abandoned coffee

If you are a coffee lover, there is a high chance that you have leftover beans or ground coffee in your cabinet. However, remember that even if you store whole beans in a sealed container in a cool, dark place, the flavor and aroma will rapidly decline after opening over time. Old coffee is difficult to produce a fresh taste and may become more bitter, so it is best to discard coffee past its expiration date. If you find it too wasteful to throw away, you can add it to brownie or chocolate cake batter to enhance the coffee flavor, or use coffee grounds as a deodorizer.

6. Expired cooking oil

Cooking oil has a shorter shelf life than expected. Over time, it oxidizes, causing changes in taste and aroma, and in severe cases, it may develop a sour or bitter flavor. Especially for premium cooking oils like olive oil, it is best to use them within a few months after opening. Oxidized cooking oil not only ruins the flavor of dishes but also poses health risks. When storing cooking oil, avoid direct sunlight and keep it in a cool, dark place. It is also advisable to discard any oil that has been left unused for a long time.

 

Food left unattended in the freezer

Everyone has old meat or frozen foods hidden in a corner of their freezer. Freezer burn occurs over time, stealing moisture from the food and degrading its taste and texture, so such foods should be discarded boldly. If the food was cooked directly or frozen in advance, it is advisable to note the packaging date to check when it was frozen. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends consuming frozen foods within 3 to 4 months for optimal quality, even though they can be stored for a longer period. Keep in mind that foods stored for too long lose moisture and flavor, making them unappetizing.

 

============

It is better to replace the sponge frequently.

Especially when the smell is abnormal or contaminated

If you get a feeling, it's best to discard it immediately. [Photo = Getty Images Bank]

 

 

I think the biggest problem is leaving the freezer unattended.

It's okay to keep it in the freezer for a long time.

I think so.

 

Maintaining the highest quality, 3-4 clinics.