There are certain food items that spark fierce debate over whether they should be kept in the fridge or in the cupboard. Finally, we have gotten a definitive answer on nine things that many of us tend to store incorrectly by leaving them unrefrigerated.
The Express reports that some items from sauces to fruit, wine and eggs belong in the fridge because it will keep them fresher for longer and thus save you money as you will have less waste by maintaining them.
The findings come from catering supply company Alliance Online, which suggested that by not storing the below items in the fridge, we could be losing more than €400 a year.
Below are the items that the catering firm insists should be kept refrigerated:
Ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard
This debate has raged for years, with some insisting that condiments belong in the cupboard because they are sold on shelves in supermarkets. But if you use an opened sauce for more than a month, the jar or bottle should be stored in the fridge to reduce the chances of bacterial growth.
Lemons, oranges and limes
Fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes could last up to four times longer if you keep them refrigerated because the cooler temperature helps with stopping them drying out.
Open red wine
If you are keeping an open bottle of red wine for the next night, the bottle should be resealed and stored in the fridge. This slows down the oxidation process and stops the wine from turning into vinegar and it can even last for up to five days.
Eggs
While eggs are often stored on shelves in shops, the Food Standard Agency recommends refrigerating them to protect them from salmonella and make them last longer.
Butter
Some people tend to leave butter on the counter to make it easier to spread on bread but it will only last at room temperature for a fortnight. It's recommended to leave only a little bit of butter out at a time and to store the original container in the refrigerator.
Apples
Apples can benefit massively from being refrigerated because the orchard fruit produces ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening in other produces. This can be slowed by keeping them in the fridge.
Jams and marmalades
Most labels on jars of jams and marmalades recommend storing them in the fridge once they've been opened. This will stop them gathering mould or developing an unpleasant smell.
Cream liqueur
Cream liqueurs often contain dairy. which places them at risk of spoiling. If a bottle of cream liqueur hasn't been opened, they can last as long as two years if stored at room temperature but once the seal has been broken, it is recommended to refrigerate them and the remaining liquid should be consumed within six months. Baileys is an exception to this rule as the manufacturer insists that Baileys will maintain freshness for two years, regardless of whether it's been opened or kept in the fridge.
Pure maple syrup
Pure maple syrup can spoil over time so to prevent the growth of mould, it's advised to refrigerate it after opening.
Always check food labels for suggested storage methods. If your food ever looks or smells like it could be off, dispose of it. Consuming contaminated food can lead to food poisoning.
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