Spuds safe in the fridge for a longer life

New food standards data show that there is no risk attached to storing raw potatoes in the cold

POTATOES can be kept in the fridge, experts have said, contrary to common health warnings.

It was previously thought that storing raw potatoes at cold temperatures could turn starches into sugars, not only making them sweeter and darker during cooking, but also forming acrylamide, a chemical which is said to increase the risk of several types of cancer.

Until recently, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) recommended that potatoes be stored in a dark, cool place at temperatures above 6C.

However, research by the FSA shows that it is safe to store potatoes in the fridge and that doing so increases their shelf life.

It showed that storing potatoes in household fridges did not materially increase the formation of acrylamide compared to keeping them in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard.

“We previously advised consumers against the storage of raw potatoes in the fridge at home as it was thought this could lead to the formation of additional sugars (known as cold sweetening), which can then convert into acrylamide when the potatoes are fried, roasted or baked,” says the updated guidance on the FSA website reads.

“A recent study, which has been reviewed by the Committee on the Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT), has shown that home storage of potatoes in the fridge doesn’t materially increase acrylamide forming potential when compared to storage in a cool, dark place.

“So, if you wish to help avoid food waste, you can choose to store either in the fridge or in a cool, dark place,” it adds.

Meanwhile, tomatoes and cucumbers, which are currently in short supply at supermarkets, should be kept out of the fridge, according to scientists.

Which? consumer experts claim that while 68 per cent of people say they keep tomatoes in the fridge, they should actually be stored in the cupboard as the cold changes the texture and inhibit the enzymes that give them flavour.

“Cold temperatures also cause cucumbers to go mushy inside and bananas to go black so they’re better off on the counter,” Which? advises.

The same rule applies to bread, which will become dehydrated in the fridge and should be stored instead in a reusable cotton or plastic bag, while onions and garlic should be stored in a dark, dry cupboard.

The updated advice on potatoes comes as some supermarkets introduced purchase limits for certain fruit and vegetables, with bad weather conditions in Spain and Morocco being blamed for food shortages.