Fridge blunders over what food should go in the fridge leaves Britons hot under the collar

Published: 11:49, 4 August 2026 | Updated: 11:58, 4 August 2026 More than three-quarters of Britons do not know what foods should be in the fridge, a poll found. Traditionally crisps, nuts or biscuits were kept in a cupboard, but these are just some of the snacks finding their way into fridges, thanks to the advice of food storage experts. Biscuit brand Bahlsen asked 2,000 Britons what foods they stored in their fridges and how often placing the wrong items in there started a row with friends or family.  Two thirds argue with a partner twice a month over whether certain foods should live in the fridge or the cupboard. Nearly half or 41 per cent ask Google where items should be stored while 78 per cent have no idea.  The confusion over where food should be stored has started rows in the kitchen with almost half of us being told off by our mum at some point. According to the poll, bananas, potatoes and avocados are three of the problem foods causing rows along with bread, jam, lemons and honey.  Leading UK food waste expert Kate Hall says there are surprising foods which should be kept refrigerated. More than three-quarters of Britons do not know what foods should be in the fridge a poll says Miss Hall says it can be a good idea to keep nuts, crisps, chocolate biscuits and even wholemeal flour, in cooler storage. She said: 'We often make decisions based on habit or what our parents did, but factors such as temperature, humidity and exposure to light all affect quality.  'Some foods that people instinctively leave in the cupboard actually benefit from refrigeration, while others lose flavour, texture or quality if they're kept too cold.' These foods include tomatoes, bread and sweet potatoes.   Chocolate biscuits divide opinion with 45 per cent thinking they belong in the fridge, while 24 per cent are unsure. Miss Hall said: 'While chocolate biscuits, with their thin coating, can be lovely chilled, full chocolate bars need a little more care.  'Moisture and temperature changes can affect their texture and appearance, causing a whitish bloom on the surface.  'If the weather is scorching, you may be better off letting it melt and enjoying an impromptu chocolate fondue instead!' Michelle Green from Bahlsen, said this summer customers have placed biscuits in the fridge to keep 'that classic chocolate snap'. 'Of all our varieties, Jaffa Cakes offer a completely different eating experience when enjoyed chilled,' she said.  'Refrigerating them gives the smooth dark chocolate a firmer snap, while the sponge takes on an even fluffier springier texture, creating a delicious contrast with the zesty smooth orange fruit filling. 'For the best flavour and texture, we recommend taking them out of the fridge around three minutes before eating, allowing the chocolate to soften slightly while still keeping that satisfyingly cold bite.'