England, Wales, Scotland & Northern Ireland
Kitchen News
Survey Reveals:
The Top Kitchen Storage Mistakes Brits Are Making
In every home, the kitchen is a central hub of culinary creativity, where dishes that nourish both body and soul come to life. Yet, even the most skilled home cooks can sometimes make storage mistakes that not only reduce the shelf life of their ingredients but may also pose health risks.
Curious about the public's food storage habits, the team at Storage Box Shop conducted a survey with 2,500 Brits. Health & Safety expert Sarah Lawson from Storage Box Shop provides valuable insights into the right ways to store kitchen staples, ensuring they stay fresh and safe to eat. The results of this insightful survey are detailed below, offering guidance on avoiding common kitchen storage blunders.
34% of Brits didn’t know you could store potatoes and onions together.
Many of us might tuck potatoes and onions into the same basket for convenience, but this seemingly harmless practice can lead to premature spoilage. Potatoes emit moisture and gases that can cause onions to rot faster, while onions release compounds that can hasten the sprouting of potatoes. **Solution**: Store them separately in cool, dark, and well-ventilated areas to extend their shelf life and prevent the growth of harmful pathogens.
25% Improperly Store Herbs
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavour to any dish, but storing them incorrectly can lead to rapid loss of flavour and potential waste. When left on the counter, herbs can wilt and lose their vibrant taste.
Solution: Wrap the herbs in a damp paper towel and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, mimicking a mini greenhouse environment that keeps them fresh longer.
23% Of Brits Misplacing Olive Oil
Olive oil is a kitchen staple, but exposing it to light and heat can lead to oxidation, reducing its flavour and nutritional value.
Solution: Store olive oil in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cabinet, in a dark-coloured glass bottle or stainless-steel container to preserve its quality and extend its shelf life.
43% of Brits Refrigerate Tomatoes
While it might seem intuitive to refrigerate all produce, tomatoes lose their flavour and acquire a mealy texture when stored in cold temperatures.
Solution: Keep tomatoes on a countertop away from direct sunlight, which allows them to ripen naturally and retain their taste and texture.
31% are storing spices above their cooking hobs
Spices are essential for adding depth and complexity to dishes, but heat, light, and moisture can degrade their potency and lead to flavour loss. Storing spices above the stove or in direct sunlight can also increase the risk of contamination from cooking fumes and moisture.
Solution: Keep your spices in a cool, dark cupboard or drawer, ensuring they stay flavorful and free from contaminants.
Health & Safety Officer, Sarah Lawson from Storage Box Shop says:
Understanding and rectifying these common kitchen storage mistakes can significantly impact the quality, safety, and longevity of your food. By storing ingredients correctly, you not only maximise their shelf life but also maintain their nutritional value and taste, ensuring your culinary creations are always delicious and safe. Adopt these storage practices to make the most of your kitchen staples and elevate your cooking to the next level.
Sarah Lawson, Health and Safety Officer
