Fruit fly egg warning for anyone who makes common ketchup mistake

A food safety expert has explained the grim, real reason you should keep ketchup in the fridge after it has been opened, following years of debate among consumers. Some people like keeping ketchup in the fridge while others prefer it at room temperature and keep it on the side or in the cupboard.

Ketchup is a preserve, high in vinegar, so many people assume it can be kept safely in a cupboard with no risk. But expert Jabraan Ahmed from food suppliers Saffron Alley has warned that could be a very dangerous mistake and has also highlighted other food storage mistakes we are making.

59% of people in the UK store tomato ketchup in the cupboard, according to a recent survey. Jabraan said: "Storing ketchup in the fridge ensures it lasts longer avoiding the breakdown of ingredients at room temperature. If the ketchup bottle is stored outside the fridge during summer, fruit flies might lay eggs or leave bacteria on the lid."

In another mistake, the survey found 61% of us keep old takeaway containers to reuse them. Jabraan said: "Old takeaway containers are often made from materials not designed for long-term use. Repeated use can cause the material to break down, potentially leaching harmful chemicals into your food."

Other common mistakes include:

Overcrowding: Cramming too much food into the fridge prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooling and potential spoilage.

Incorrect Temperature Setting: Many people set their fridge temperature too high, which can result in food not being stored at a safe temperature.

Improper Placement of Raw Meats: Placing raw meat on higher shelves can lead to dangerous cross-contamination if juices drip onto other foods.

Ignoring Expiry Dates: Keeping expired foods can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and potential foodborne illnesses.

Storing Perishables in the Door: The fridge door is the warmest part, so storing highly perishable items there can reduce their shelf life.

Jabraan has explained how to properly organise your fridge:

Set the Right Temperature

Ideal Temperature: Your fridge should be set at 3-5°C (37-41°F). Use a fridge thermometer to check and adjust as necessary.

Top Shelf

Ready-to-Eat Foods: Store ready-to-eat foods like leftovers, cooked meats, dairy products, and drinks on the top shelf. This area has the most consistent temperature.

Middle Shelves

Dairy and Eggs: Place dairy products and eggs here, where the temperature is slightly cooler than the top but still consistent. Do not store them in the side of the refrigerator, this will cause uneven flow to the eggs, potentially causing them to go off.

Packaged Foods: Store items like deli meats and packaged foods that don’t require cooking.

Bottom Shelf

Raw Meat and Fish: Always store raw meats and fish on the bottom shelf in sealed containers to prevent their juices from dripping onto other foods and causing cross-contamination.

Crisper Drawers

Fruits and Vegetables: Use the crisper drawers to store fruits and vegetables separately. Many fridges have humidity controls for these drawers; use higher humidity for vegetables and lower for fruits.

Fridge Door

Condiments and Drinks: Store condiments, sauces, and drinks here. Avoid placing perishable items like milk and eggs in the door, as it’s the warmest part of the fridge.

Jabraan said: "Cross-contamination and improper storage, like placing raw meat above ready-to-eat foods, can lead to foodborne illnesses such as salmonella or E. coli infections. Storing food at incorrect temperatures can accelerate spoilage, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria."

Jabraan added: "By following these guidelines, you can ensure your fridge is properly organised, keeping your food fresh and safe. Proper storage not only helps prevent foodborne illnesses but also extends the shelf life of your groceries, saving you money and reducing waste."