nFirst crush: Squeeze the bread to ascertain its freshness.

nthen protect: Cover the bread with a slightly dampened cloth to preserve its flavour.

nthen preserve: If unsliced, store bread at room temperature.

nnatural way: Avoid putting unused bread in the refrigerator. Refrigeration may, however, retard the growth of fungi.

ngive it the gentle touch: For soft-crust breads, wrap the loaf in foil and bake in pre-heated oven for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees.

nget hot: Toasting is another good way of maintaining the flavour of bread.