If you’ve ever opened a new bottle of oil, you’ve probably noticed the small tab or plastic seal inside the cap. It’s easy to toss this away without thinking twice, but that little tab actually serves a useful purpose! Here’s why you should stop discarding it and how you can use it instead:
1. Prevents Spills and Leaks
The small plastic tab inside the oil cap is designed to seal the bottle tightly and prevent oil from spilling out. When the tab is in place, it creates an airtight seal, which reduces the chances of leaking when the bottle is tipped over. This is especially important for oils with a thinner consistency or bottles that will be stored on their side, as it keeps your kitchen clean and free of messy spills.
2. Keeps the Oil Fresh
The seal also helps preserve the freshness of the oil by limiting air exposure. When the tab is removed and the cap is closed again, the oil inside is protected from oxidizing or spoiling too quickly. This is important for maintaining the flavor and quality of oils, especially nut oils and flavored oils that may be more prone to deterioration.
3. Convenient Measuring Tool
The tab can also serve as a measuring guide or drip stopper. If you’ve ever tried to pour oil from a new bottle, you may have noticed that some bottles tend to pour too much oil at once. The tab can help regulate this flow. Simply press the tab against the neck of the bottle as you pour, and it will slow down the oil flow, allowing you to pour a more controlled amount. This helps you avoid wasting oil and makes cooking more efficient.
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