Potatoes are a staple in many kitchens, but their storage often ends in disappointment as they sprout, wrinkle, soften, or turn green. While the common practice is to store potatoes in cupboards or cool dark places, a recent study suggests refrigeration is the key to extending their shelf life by at least six months. This revelation comes at a time when food waste is a pressing concern. The UK alone throws away nearly half a million tonnes of fresh vegetables and salads annually, costing a staggering £2.1 billion. Historically, concerns over acrylamide levels, a potential cancer risk forming in starchy foods, kept potatoes out of the fridge. However, a comprehensive study by the Committee on the Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products, and the Environment (COT) and reviewed by the FSA, has definitively proven that refrigeration does not increase acrylamide levels in potatoes. This research, backed by reputable organizations, offers a clear solution to potato storage, encouraging consumers to embrace the fridge. But the benefits of refrigeration extend beyond simply keeping potatoes fresh longer. A study conducted by WRAP, the organization behind the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, examined the accuracy of best-before dates and their role in food waste. Their findings revealed that best-before dates are not always a reliable indicator of edibility, especially when food is stored properly. Potatoes, for example, can last much longer than the 10-day shelf life stated on their packaging when stored in a cool, dark place. However, when refrigerated, potatoes stayed fresh for an impressive 20 days past their best-before date. The experiment even showed that potatoes could endure even longer, both at room temperature and refrigerated, when best-before dates were completely disregarded. The experts emphasize that the fridge is the ideal storage environment for potatoes, ensuring they stay fresh for the longest duration. While potatoes can remain edible for several months in a cool, dark place, refrigeration can triple their lifespan, potentially extending beyond six months. For optimal potato longevity, it is recommended to remove them from plastic packaging and store them in a fabric bag, allowing them to breathe and preventing light exposure.
Potatoes in the Fridge? Science Says It’s Time to Rethink Storage
