You don’t want to throw things out because you don’t want to be wasteful. The stuff you throw out ends up in
landfills, contributes to pollution, and ultimately costs you money. Let’s be honest, though. There are some things in your kitchen that need to go. And holding onto junk isn’t exactly how you’re going to go zero waste. Here’s a handy list of things to help you weed out expired products, space wasters and hazards to your health, courtesy of Australia online pokies.
Plastic storage containers
If your plastic containers are warped, then the lids won’t seal properly. A poor seal can lead to freezer burn, spills and other problems. Put them in the recycling bin and buy some new containers.
Sponges
If your sponge has bits falling off or has food trapped in the scrubber you just can’t get out, then don’t bother. It’s time to toss it. Also, give it a toss when it starts to smell funny. A soured smell typically means the sponge is growing bacteria.
Chipped cups and bowls
I know it’s hard to let go of your favorite bowl or mug, but if it’s chipped, you need to say adios. That broken area can cut your lip or fingers. Plus, if your bowl or cup is an antique, the paint may contain lead. You don’t want little flakes of lead in your coffee or cereal.
Ceramics that just don’t look right
While we’re talking about lead, take a good look at the old ceramic items in your kitchen. Ceramic bowls or cups that have a corroded glaze (it looks like the paint is coming off) or are covered with a dusty-looking or chalky gray residue after they have been washed may be glazed with lead. The lead can leach into your food, so stop using them ASAP, according to machine a sous en ligne francais.
Old spices
If you don’t cook a lot, your spices may be past their prime. The older the seasoning, the less flavor it will give your recipes. The best indication of how good a spice might be is the sniff test. If the spice still smells strong, keep it. If you can hardly smell anything, toss it.
Fresh spices
Fresh spices are also typically vibrant in color and don’t stick together in the jar.
Old spices
Old spices are often a washed-out color and clump up in the jar due to exposure to humidity.
Herbs
Use the sniff test on herbs, too. Also, look for faded or grayish colors, which could be another sign of herbs that are long past their sell-by date.
Old herbs
For example, these herbs are past their prime. The color looks washed out, yellowed and dingy.
Fresh herbs
These herbs, on the other hand, are fresh. They are a darker green and the color is less yellowed and dull.
Pantry items
While you’re clearing out your seasoning rack, head on over to your pantry. Here are 10 pantry items that you should purge.
Canning jar lids
Do not reuse canning jar lids for canning. After one use, the seal will no longer work properly. You can use the used lids on items you’ll just store in the fridge, but once they’re rusty, it’s time to toss them in the recycling bin.
Ripped pot holders
This should be obvious, but I’ve seen too many people with ripped pot holders in their kitchens. Eventually, these people end up with a nasty burn. Don’t be like them! Get some new potholders that will properly protect your digits.
Sieves
If your sieves are rusty or have holes, toss them in the recycling. The rust can get into your food, and what’s the point of pouring something through a sieve that has a big hole in it? Just let it go.
Unused appliances
It doesn’t matter if it was a wedding gift or not. Box up any appliance you haven’t used in a year and give it to charity. You’ll enjoy the added space in your kitchen and someone else will enjoy your donation.
