Heinz has finally settled the long-running debate over whether ketchup belongs in the fridge or the cupboard, and its answer may not be what everyone wants to hear. The brand recommends refrigerating its ketchup after opening.
Heinz confirms fridge is the correct place
Olivia Lennon, at Heinz Tomato, confirmed to Daily Mail that the brand recommends refrigerating its ketchup after opening. She said: "There was only ever one correct answer and we're happy to share with Heinz Tomato Ketchup lovers that our ketchup has to be in the fridge."
"Although we're aware many Heinz Tomato Ketchup fans have been storing their ketchup in the cupboard, we do recommend refrigeration after opening," she added. "This is the best way to maintain the delicious tangy taste of our Heinz Tomato Ketchup that you know and love."
The label on Heinz ketchup bottles also advises that opened ketchup should be kept in the fridge and consumed within eight weeks.
Fans divided over storage
The brand previously sparked a heated debate on social media after asking customers where they store their ketchup, with thousands weighing in on whether the red sauce belongs in the refrigerator or on a kitchen shelf. A poll of around 2,500 voters was split, while social media users were equally divided.
One user said: "I'm firmly for the fridge myself, keen to see if I'm as weird as my friend seemed to think!" Another added: "Keep in fridge. End of debate." A third pointed out: "Literally says 'keep refrigerated' on the bottle..."
However, others weren't convinced, with one writing: "Spoons says otherwise." Another argued: "Cupboard, who wants cold sauce on their fry up?" One more added: "Cupboard next to the brown sauce."
Experts question necessity of refrigeration
Despite Heinz's advice, there is some disagreement among food experts over whether refrigeration is actually necessary. Which? says ketchup doesn't have to be kept in the fridge, pointing out its vinegar content and the natural acidity of tomatoes help preserve it at room temperature.
Dietitian Dr Sarah Schenker told the consumer group that some people refrigerate ketchup simply because they prefer the taste when it's chilled. Which? added the decision can ultimately come down to personal preference, the temperature of your kitchen and how much storage space you have.
Heinz itself previously acknowledged its ketchup is shelf-stable because of its natural acidity, but said storage conditions can affect the product after opening. The brand said refrigeration is recommended because it will "maintain the best product quality after opening".
So while you might have been happily keeping your ketchup in the cupboard for years, Heinz's official advice is clear: once opened, put it in the fridge if you want to follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
