Fridge vs pantry: Where to store these household staples

The long-standing debate over whether staples such as tomato sauce or peanut butter belong in the fridge or pantry has been dividing households for years.

So, where should we really keep these common foods? Starts at 60 spoke to Lydia Buchtmann from the Food Safety Information Council (FSIC) to find out.

Tomato sauce

Does tomato sauce belong in the fridge or in the pantry?

It has been a question thrown around time and time again, with some insisting that the sauce only has the right, runny consistency when stored at room temperature. While others swear the fridge is the best place, preferring a cool topping for warm pies and hot chips.

According to Buchtmann, tomato sauce is best served cold from the fridge. She says a lot of things we used to keep in the pantry like sauces now have a lot less salt and sugar in them, which means they need to be refrigerated once they’re opened.

“Don’t rely on storing food in the pantry like you did in your childhood,” she advises. “Check the label to see if these foods now need refrigerating once opened.”

Verdict: Fridge

Condiments

The same goes for peanut butter, jams, chutneys and mustards. Buchtmann says because they’ve become healthier by using less preservatives, they should be stored in the fridge. Check the label if you’re unsure.

Verdict: Fridge

Bread

Bread is more likely to go stale in the fridge, so leave it out in the pantry, Buchtmann advises. However, if it’s sliced, it can be easily frozen — it can last several months in the freezer. To thaw your frozen bread, take it out of the freezer and let it come to room temperature.

Verdict: Pantry or freezer

Flour, pasta and rice

“Flour, pasta and rice should be stored in a sealed container in the pantry,” Buchtmann advises.

However, cooked rice or pasta can be refrigerated for up to three days, and frozen for about one to two months.

Verdict: Pantry

Eggs

Many people keep their eggs in the pantry or on the bench, but Buchtmann says they should be stored in the fridge in their own cartons or packaging. It keeps them fresh and stops them absorbing food odours.

“Some shops sell unrefrigerated eggs and while this is legal, your eggs will last longer if you buy them refrigerated,” she explains.

Verdict: Fridge

Fruits and vegetables

Buchtmann says vegetables like carrot, broccoli and cabbage should be refrigerated, however starchy vegetables including potatoes, lentils or peas should be kept somewhere cool and dry. Meanwhile, most fruits — especially tomatoes — will taste better left out.

“If veggies are looking old, use them in a soup or stew, and freeze any excess fruits,” she recommends.

 Verdict: Depends

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.