A device for storing bread was not necessary for many centuries, since baked goods were served to the nobility, and the poor got only stale crusts. For the first time, in Europe, canvas bags began to be used as bread bins.
But today, birch bark bread bins are among the popular kitchen appliances. In them, baked goods stay fresh for a long time and are not affected by mold.
Folk elements used in the design will perfectly complement and diversify the interior of an apartment or house.
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Useful properties of birch bark bread bin
Carved wooden bread bins have positive reviews due to their functional features.
The top layer of birch bark or birch bark categorically does not absorb foreign odors, and also will not give baked goods non-standard notes of wood and resin, for example, as is done:
- maple;
- oak;
- pine.
It has long been called “white gold” due to the fact that it protected the wood from the negative effects of moisture, that is, it did not rot.
Birch bark boxes were used to store various cereals, salt, honey, flour, milk, and birch bark cups were used to drink cold drinks.
A white wooden bread bin can keep baked goods fresh and soft for 2-4 days. The housewife can be sure that mold will not damage the bread. This is possible due to the properties of this flexible and natural material - birch bark contains silver ions. These components become a barrier to the proliferation of bacteria.
The black stripes on the wood allow it to “breathe” oxygen, which allows it to function as a natural membrane.
Variety of shapes and decoration of birch bark bread bins
Craftsmen love this craft material for its practicality, pliability, elasticity, and nobility.
The natural range is presented in light white, honey and golden tones. The bark of this tree is very easy to process.
In most cases, a birch bark bread bin is made in the form of a chest, bin or box. National craftsmen equip them with doors, for example, sliding or folding.
Such forms are comfortable and quite roomy, while maintaining their original appearance for a long period.
If necessary, you can find traditional oval devices, as well as bread bins of unusual design, for example, birch bark cylindrical products with a domed lid.
Some wood craftsmen offer consumers two-tiered varieties, in which it is possible to store several types of baked goods separately.
Most often, national ornaments, scenes from folk tales, and natural components are used as decoration. Many craftsmen can offer individual execution to order, so it becomes possible to develop a personal way of decoration.
The carved finishing method will fit perfectly into the interior of a country house.
How to determine the naturalness of a birch bark bread bin?
Birch bark is a protective layer of the outer bark. Due to its unique natural functions, birch is considered a favorite and sought-after component among artisans. Various accessories and household appliances, art objects are made from it.
The products are original, warm and easy to use. Since ancient times, birch bark items were considered to be filled with energy, so they retained their internal warmth for a long time.
A natural birch bark device can be found among domestic craftsmen. Most often, such bread boxes are genuine, as they are made of environmentally friendly material. Today, you can also find Chinese copies made of thin plastic to imitate wood.
Therefore, it is very important to give preference to national manufacturers who use only natural birch bark in the manufacturing process.
Externally, the material is white with black longitudinal lines (lenticels), and the inner side can be painted yellow, red, orange or yellow-green. Such contrast allows you to create incredible artistic products.
Recommendations for the care of a birch bark bread bin
A birch bark bread bin needs to be aired periodically. To do this, remove any remaining bread, wipe the inside with a slightly damp cloth and leave it for a few hours with the doors open.
There is no need to use special products, it is recommended to give preference to a weak vinegar solution. To add shine, it is permissible to use vegetable oil.
You can place a small salt shaker, potato or apple slice inside with the bread. Such components can protect the bread from the growth of mold spores.
