Here's what to throw away right now:
1. Stale nuts
You know the ones – all the boring nuts that are left behind after everyone picks out their favourites. Bin them and resolve to making up your own mix next time.
2. Old herbs and spices
Check expiry dates as they will lose their pungency over time. Any used for a one-off recipe should also be discarded.
3. Open packs of biscuits and crackers
These will become stale after only 1 day. Always store in sealed plastic containers immediately after opening.
4. Half-used packets of pasta
Are a magnet for pantry moths! Decant remainder straight into a jar or sealed plastic container as soon as you open a packet.
5. Gourmet sauces, fancy vinegars and flavoured oils
That you don’t use. Even if they’re beautifully bottled… unless they earn their keep on the shelf, bin them!
6. Any out of date items
Check for cereal boxes, cordial bottles, slow-cooker sauces, old coconut lurking in the recesses and corners of your pantry.
7. Tins with visible signs of age
..have been there for an age! Whilst some canned good can safely outlast their suggested use by date, don’t hang on to things for months if you’re simply not going to use them. Check for damage to dubious cans or when in doubt, throw it out.
Wipe shelves as you go and stock take any items that are getting low.
Related:
A sneak peek inside Gwyneth Paltrow’s pantry
