Beeswax food wraps have become an increasingly popular alternative to plastic wraps for storing food. Made from cotton fabric coated with beeswax, they are reusable and biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly option. However, beeswax wraps can be used for many uses. In this blog, we will explore some alternative ways to use beeswax food wraps.

 1. Wrap pastry in clingfilm 

How many times do we see in a recipe that says to wrap up pastry in clingfilm and chill? Well, it doesn't need to be this way. Beeswax wraps can do the same job. Just wrap tightly so there's no air. You can even use them in the freezer. If using in the freezer, just allow to come to room temperature before unfolding. 

2. Make a popcorn snack cone

Turn a beeswax wrap into a cone by grabbing a corner and folding into cone shape. You can fold down at the top to secure. These cones are handy for many other snacks such as pretzels or crisps! The beeswax wrap cones give a fun snacking experience for kids and they are reusable too! 

3. Make a pouch for snacks.

Beeswax wraps can be turned into pouches for snacks like nuts and dried fruit. Simply fold the wrap in half and then fold the sides in to create a pouch. Fill the pouch with your favorite snacks and then fold the top down to seal.

4. Use when proving dough.

Use to cover bowl of dough when proofing. You can also use to keep bread wrapped up and fresh once cooled!

5. Missing a jar lid

Missing a jar lid? Why not use a small beeswax wrap to seal a reused jar. You could also use wraps as a grip for opening stuck lids.

6. Wrap homemade food gifts.

Beeswax wraps can also be used as gift wraps. Instead of a bottle of wine or chocolates why not make some homemade bread or scones as a gift when visiting family of friends. Simply wrap the gift in the wrap and then tie it with a ribbon or string. The wrap can be reused by the recipient as a food wrap or for one of the other alternative uses listed above.

In conclusion, beeswax food wraps are versatile and can be used for more than just wrapping food. They are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap and can be reused multiple times. Try out some of these alternative uses for beeswax wraps and reduce your reliance on single use plastics. If you would like to give Millbee's beeswax wraps a try here's a 10% discount to help you along on your plastic free journey - BEE10

Irish soda bread is a traditional bread that has been enjoyed in Ireland for centuries. It is a quick and easy bread to make, and it has a unique flavor and texture that sets it apart from other breads. In this blog post, we will explore a brief history of Irish soda bread, provide a recipe for making your own, and offer tips on how to keep it fresh.

History of Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread was first made in the mid-1800s.  At that time, traditional leavening agents like yeast were not available. Instead, they used baking soda and buttermilk to make their bread rise. The result was a simple, rustic bread that was perfect for everyday meals. In Irish folklore, the cross on top of the soda bread is believed to have protective powers against evil spirits, including fairies and the devil.

Recipe for Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda.

3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly for 1-2 minutes.

5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Use a sharp knife to score an 'X' on the top of the loaf.

7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

How to Keep Irish Soda Bread Fresh

Irish soda bread is best eaten fresh, but it can be kept for a few days if stored properly. Here are some tips on how to keep your bread fresh:

• Wrap the bread tightly a large beeswax wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also store your bread wrapped up in a beeswax wrap in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

• Store the bread at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

• If the bread starts to become stale, revive it by sprinkling a little water on the crust and reheating it in the oven for a few minutes.

In conclusion, Irish soda bread is a delicious and easy bread to make that has a rich history in Ireland. With this recipe and tips on how to keep it fresh, you can enjoy this traditional bread anytime.

Wondering how to use your beeswax wraps in the Summer? When the sun is shinning it's best to make the most of it! Try to get outdoors and soak up some vitamin D. Here's 5 ways to use your beeswax wraps outdoors!

1. Picnics

When it comes to picnic I recommend a good strong basket. I picked up one in our local farmers market - a great investment! I love to bring bread and a knife with some sandwich fillers (cheese, ham, hummus) and prepare outside. Less prep time indoors! I usually have bread already wrapped in the pantry so it's just a matter of throwing it into the basket. 

2. Salads

Whether you are making a salad for your lunch-break or a social gathering you can prepare in advance and keep covered in the fridge till later. Keep the dressing separate and mix when ready to eat. You don't want soggy lettuce! As well as the health benefits, making your own salads can save money and you can be as creative as you like! 

3. Outdoor Activities

One plus to beeswax wraps is that they are lightweight and convenient. If you are going for a cycle or hike they don't take up much space and keep your food wrapped up tightly!

4. Sandwich Wraps

When it comes to eating on the go Millbee's lunch pack beeswax wrap sizes are ideal. You can make your sandwich in advance, wrap it in a sandwich pouch and all your fillings will stay intact! 

GET 5% OFF LUNCH WRAP WITH CODE SUMMER5.

* OFFER ENDS AUGUST 10TH 2022.

5. BBQ

Summer BBQ's are the best! You can marinade vegetable dishes in advance and leave over night in the fridge. The same goes for vegetable burgers. I love this 15 minute vegetable burger recipe from the Happy Pear. 

I hope you get some Summer inspiration from our 5 uses for Millbee's Beeswax Wraps. Enjoy your Summer!

For a lot of that time the only company I had was nature. I watched the birds come in and out into the feeders in early Spring and on into Summer. There was a hive of bees and wasps coming and going and I used to take such pleasure in watching them bounce from flower to flower. It made me really want to invest back into nature.

While I was going through that really difficult time, nature was there to pick me up, keep me company and it soothed me many days.

I decided to make new choices to rebuild my life. Change can't happen unless I make change happen. I decided that I needed to take care of myself, and in taking care of myself, my home was going to be an extension of that. Further out from that, my take on the environment.

So in the Autumn/Winter of 2019, I made my first purchase with Millbee in hopes to reduce single use plastics at home.

And I'd say after a couple of months, I wasn't picking up the cling wrap as much as I usually would be. I started with the lunch pack and getting the kids off to school with their lunches wrapped up in Millbee's Beeswax Wraps. It did wonders for me also because I felt like I was doing something good for them. Teaching them to take care of things and showing them that it's little steps we do that's going to make a difference.

I choose doing more for the environment as part of my self care regime.

I learned so much from it that I wanted to give back, and I wanted to protect what was there. As time has gone on I've expanded my Millbee collection to their candles which I find fantastic for a few quiet moments to myself. If I want any time to journal or time to relax before bed, the glow of Millbee's beeswax candle really does it for me! And I just love the way they're constructed and rolled. I really admire the workmanship that's gone into the candles!

I use all the wrap sizes - the bread wrap and the variety wrap sizes. I have a couple of the lunch wraps and they go on pretty much everything. My sourdough starter is now under one, and it's the happiest it's ever been!

So, that's why I choose Millbee as part of my journey going forward. I like the ethos. I like working with nature and bees.

I like reusable products you use in the home that are more eco-friendly. It leaves less of a footprint. 

What I was doing in my home gave me a boost. I was implementing some good habits with my children. I was giving them some good knowledge on how to take care of things, themselves and the earth combined, and all of nature. I felt like I was given something back. So that's my journey with Millbee! That's why I've incorporated this so much into my life and I really don't see it ending there! Keep moving forward with it and coming up with new ideas for us. That's it guys! Thank you.

~ Dee Mulroe 

You can follow Dee's Instagram page "Kitchen on the Mountain" for lots of delicious and nourishing home cooked recipes and self-care tips. Dee is also an advocate for mental health awareness. She is such an inspiration and we are so grateful to Dee for being our very first ambassador. 

As a special introductory price, Millbee is offering 10% off our 4 Pack Multisize Wraps for new customers today! 

Plus, if you aren't totally happy with your Millbee Beeswax Food Wraps, you can return them within 90 days for a full refund.