Many of us instinctively stash potatoes in cupboards or dark spaces, but research suggests that a simple change could dramatically extend their lifespan – refrigeration. While some may be concerned about acrylamide formation, a chemical linked to cancer risk, extensive scientific scrutiny has debunked these worries, confirming that chilling potatoes does not increase acrylamide levels. In fact, the fridge emerges as the ideal storage environment for potatoes, potentially tripling their shelf life to over six months! This revelation is particularly important given the staggering amount of food waste in the UK, with nearly half a million tonnes of fresh vegetables and salad, along with a quarter of a million tonnes of fresh fruit, discarded annually. This equates to a whopping £2.1 billion in wasted food, according to Love Food Hate Waste experts.
Previously, concerns centered around elevated acrylamide levels in potatoes stored at low temperatures. However, the Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT), alongside the Food Standards Agency (FSA), have thoroughly examined the issue, confirming that fridge storage does not actually increase acrylamide potential compared to room-temperature cupboard storage.
While best-before dates on packaging serve as valuable guidance, a trial conducted by WRAP (the organization behind the Love Food Hate Waste campaign) revealed that these dates may not always be a reliable indicator of edibility, especially when food is stored properly. The trial demonstrated that potatoes stored in a kitchen cupboard, despite a best-before date of 10 days, remained edible for four days beyond that date. Remarkably, when stored at four degrees Celsius (refrigerated), the same best-before timeframe was given, but deterioration only began 20 days later. Even without best-before dates, potatoes displayed an even longer shelf life, both at room temperature and refrigerated.
Experts strongly recommend storing potatoes in the fridge to maximize their lifespan. While they can last for several months in a cool, dark environment, refrigeration can triple their duration, exceeding six months. To further enhance their longevity, it’s advisable to remove potatoes from plastic packaging and store them in a breathable fabric bag, blocking out light and allowing proper ventilation. By adopting this simple storage trick, you can contribute to reducing food waste and enjoying fresh, delicious potatoes for much longer.
