Are you storing these nine food staples correctly? Find out now!

We are no strangers to the wonders of a good fridge. It's the unsung hero of the kitchen, keeping our food fresh and safe.

However, not all foods benefit from the chilly embrace of our beloved appliance.

Let's dive into the nine foods you should stop refrigerating immediately—some might even surprise you.


Tomatoes

These juicy fruits (yes, technically fruits) are often victims of the cold.

Refrigeration can disrupt their flavour-producing enzymes, producing a less sweet and aromatic experience.

Instead, leave them on the counter to enjoy their rich taste.

Potatoes

The humble spud prefers a cool, dark place warmer than your fridge.

The low temperatures can turn their starches into sugars, affecting the taste and texture.

Keep them in a paper bag in a cool pantry to maintain their earthy goodness.


compressed-pexels-ron-lach-8466649.jpeg
Keep your foods fresh and ready for consumption with these storage tips. Image Credit: Pexels/Ron Lach


Onions

These pungent bulbs also dislike the cold for similar reasons to potatoes.

The fridge can make them mushy and overly sweet.

Store them in a dry, ventilated space, but keep them away from potatoes, which can cause them to spoil faster.

Avocados

If you've ever waited for an avocado to ripen, you know it's a delicate dance.

Cold temperatures slow the ripening process, so keep them out until they're just right. Only refrigerate them if you need to extend their shelf life.

Whole Garlic

Like onions, garlic prefers to avoid the fridge's moisture, which can lead to sprouting and a change in texture.

Store it in a cool, dry place until you're ready to unleash its flavour in your cooking.


Hot Sauce

With its high acid and salt content, hot sauce can fend off bacteria at room temperature.

Keeping it out of the fridge helps maintain its vibrant taste and colour.

Butter

While food safety rules might suggest refrigeration, many of us prefer our butter ready for spreading.

Keeping a stick out on the counter is generally safe if you consume it quickly.

Keep butter away from light and heat to prevent rancidity.

Honey

This natural sweetener is practically immortal on the shelf.

Refrigeration can lead to crystallisation, making it less pourable.

Keep it at room temperature for a smooth, sweet drizzle every time.


Oil and Lard

These pure fats don't support microbial growth, so there's no need to refrigerate them.

Just store them in a cool, dark place to prevent rancidity.

Bacon grease is an exception, which requires refrigeration due to its protein content.

By keeping these foods out of the fridge, you're not just preserving their quality but also freeing up valuable fridge space for items that genuinely need it.

Plus, you may notice an improved flavour and texture that could elevate your cooking.
Key Takeaways

  • Certain foods are better off not being stored in the refrigerator as it can adversely affect their texture and flavour.
  • Tomatoes, potatoes, and onions are some products that are kept at room temperature to maintain optimal taste and freshness.
  • Items such as honey, hot sauce, oil and lard have preservative properties or composition that prevent bacterial growth, so they don't require refrigeration.
  • Butter can be left out of the fridge to remain spreadable for convenience. However, clarified butter, such as ghee, can last even longer without refrigeration.
Do you have tricks to keep produce at its peak? Share your food storage tips in the comments below.
 
Sponsored
One exception to the Honey in the refrigerator is Creamed Honey will only stay in that state if kept in the refrigerator!!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Veggiepatch
I haven't had creamed honey for about 50 years. It was Heather brand from memory. Do they still sell it?

The cream honey I am able to purchase is from a local
I haven't had creamed honey for about 50 years. It was Heather brand from memory. Do they still sell it?

The creamed honey I am able to purchase comes from Flinders Ranges Apiaries at Wirrabara in the mid north of South Australia, a short 15 minute drive from home..
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×