Consumer group Which? has encouraged shoppers to reconsider the automatic habit of storing certain foods in the refrigerator, highlighting that some everyday items may actually spoil more quickly in cold, damp conditions. In a recent video shared on Facebook and TikTok by @Which?, the organisation emphasised that it is a misconception to believe that refrigeration always helps food stay fresher for longer.
The video identifies five commonly refrigerated foods that are better stored elsewhere. Among these, cucumbers are said to fare poorly in the fridge because the low temperatures can cause their skin to shrivel and the flesh to become soft. Which? recommends keeping cucumbers in a cupboard or a bowl on the countertop instead.
Similarly, tomatoes are reported to lose both their texture and flavour when refrigerated, so it is advised to store them at room temperature. The video also names onions, bread, and bananas as items that benefit from alternative storage methods.
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Onions, according to Which?, are prone to becoming soft or mouldy in the fridge due to moisture. Whole onions should be kept in a cool, dry place; however, cut or sliced onions may be refrigerated provided they are sealed in a container.
Bread is another food best kept out of the refrigerator. The experts explain that cold air can dry out bread, causing it to stale more quickly. Instead, they suggest storing bread in a bread bin and freezing any surplus, ideally sliced beforehand so it can be toasted directly from frozen.
While some fruits such as small berries and citrus can be refrigerated, the advice is to avoid putting bananas in the fridge. Bananas are better kept in a cool spot like a cupboard or fruit bowl.
The video has sparked a range of responses on Facebook. Some users expressed reservations, with one commenting, “Cucumber in the fridge. Not leaving it out in this heat!” Others shared differing views; one said, “Totally disagree I always keep bananas in the fridge the skin might go black but the fruit is great yellow and still firm.” Another noted, “I’ve kept cucumbers, onions and tomatoes in the fridge for years without problems, although I do take tomatoes out a few hours before using.” Yet another remarked, “Would never keep bananas or onions in a fridge but always tomatoes and cucumbers.”