Four chefs have settled the long-running kitchen debate over where opened ketchup should be stored, and all backed the same option: the fridge.
Ketchup is bought from supermarket shelves at room temperature, and numerous consumer surveys have described it as the nation's most beloved condiment, particularly as an accompaniment to a full English breakfast. The question of fridge versus cupboard after opening has divided fans for years.
The chefs' verdict
Chefs Mike Reid, Jeremy Pang and Nima Safaei, along with registered nutritionist and recipe development manager at Green Chef, Lily Keeling, were unanimous in their recommendation to refrigerate once opened.
Jeremy Pang said: "Ketchup - you can get away with keeping it out of the fridge but there's something not quite right about that, especially that crusty congealed ketchup that gets stuck inside the lid. In general, with these thick liquids, keep them refrigerated please."
Mike Reid agreed, saying the cupboard was "fine" but that he is "a fridge man once it's open." He added that Heinz itself tells people to refrigerate after opening, and that although the vinegar and sugar content means it will not do any harm in the pantry, the colour and bright, tangy flavour hold better cold.
Nima Safaei, chef and owner of three Soho restaurants, said: "Although it's shelf-stable before opening thanks to its acidity, I always recommend refrigerating it once opened. By keeping it in the fridge, it helps preserve the fresh tomato flavour and vibrant colour for much longer."
He added that refrigeration will always give the best quality, and said: "Don't forget to wipe the bottle clean after use - dried ketchup around the lid is the perfect place for bacteria and mould to develop."
Lily Keeling told us: "Once it's open, I keep mine in the fridge, not because I'm worried, it just tastes fresher for longer. I don't think there's much problem leaving it in the cupboard either."
What Heinz says
Heinz advises that ketchup should be refrigerated after opening to maintain quality. Olivia Lennon, at Heinz Tomato Ketchup, previously told the Daily Mail: "There was only ever one correct answer, and we're happy to share with Heinz Tomato Ketchup lovers across the UK that our ketchup has to be in the fridge."
She added: "Although we're aware many Heinz Tomato Ketchup fans have been storing their ketchup in the cupboard, we do recommend refrigeration after opening. This is the best way to maintain the delicious tangy taste of our Heinz Tomato Ketchup that you know and love."
Food safety advice
The Food Standards Agency advises consumers to follow the storage instructions printed on food labels. It states: "Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial ketchup, cocktail sauce, and chili sauce are safe when stored at room temperature after opening."
It adds: "Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening."
A storage expert's tip
Vlatka Lake, a storage expert at Space Station, says sealed condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise and barbeque sauce normally have a long shelf life and can be kept in a dark cupboard or pantry for up to a year, if the bottle is checked for confirmation. Once opened, she says: "If you're looking to store an opened bottle, then this needs to be kept in the fridge to keep it nice and fresh. If properly placed in the fridge, most condiments will last for up to six months, but don't forget to check the used by date to be sure."
