American scientists say they can make bread last for up to two months. They have found a way to stop mould or fungus growing on bread and other food. The researchers are from a biotechnology company called MicroZap. The company's name gives a clue to how their technology works. They use high-powered microwaves to zap the food and kill anything that could grow fungus. They started their project to find an answer to the superbugs that are found in many U.S. hospitals. However, they soon discovered that their technique could sterilise food. The scientists say they only need to microwave the bread for about ten seconds and then it is OK to eat 60 days later. They also say the taste of the bread stays the same.

The scientists believe their discovery could stop people throwing away so much food. Studies show that Americans put around 40 per cent of the food they buy into the trash. Having food that lasts longer would save people money and help the Earth. Another benefit of MicroZap's technology is in stopping disease. Illness from food has a huge impact on society. There are 76 million cases of food poisoning in America every year, with 5,000 deaths. It costs the economy about $6 billion annually. The company hopes to use its technology soon in making safe, ready-made meals for war zones and areas hit by disasters. MicroZapping could become the best thing since sliced bread.