Learn why poha can lose its crisp texture in some plastic containers. Discover how an airtight glass or steel tin is often a better choice.
1 Answer
Poha loses its texture in plastic containers primarily due to trapped moisture, which causes it to become soggy and clump together. The lack of breathability in plastic exacerbates this issue.
Detailed Explanation:
Poha, or flattened rice, is naturally porous and absorbs moisture easily. When stored in a plastic container, any residual moisture from the poha itself, or from the environment, gets trapped inside. Unlike breathable materials like cloth or paper, plastic doesn't allow air circulation. This trapped moisture increases the humidity within the container, leading to the poha absorbing more water and losing its desired fluffy texture. Over time, this can result in a mushy, sticky, and unappetizing product. The airtight nature of many plastic containers also prevents any existing moisture from escaping, accelerating the degradation of the poha's texture.
Pro Tip:
To maintain the texture of poha, store it in an airtight container made of glass or stainless steel with a desiccant packet to absorb any excess moisture. Alternatively, you can store it in a breathable cloth bag in a cool, dry place.