2 days Ago By Melanie Kaidan
In many homes across Britain, potatoes are a trusted kitchen essential—mashed, baked , boiled or chipped, they’ve earned a permanent place in cupboards up and down the country. However, they often go to waste after they start to sprout or go soft without ever getting a chance to make it to the dinner table. For many households, the issue behind their potatoes spoiling to soon may be a simple but widespread storage habit that experts now say could be cutting the shelf life of your potatoes dramatically.
According to waste management specialists Wheeldon Brothers, most people could be extending the life of their spuds “up to three times longer” by making just one or two small changes to their usual routine. And despite some outdated beliefs, this storage method has now been backed by modern food waste campaigns and research. “Refrigerating potatoes can keep them fresh up to three times longer,” the expert explained, challenging the belief that potatoes should be kept in vegetable baskets or on shelves.
Previously, it was thought that chilling potatoes might increase acrylamide—a chemical that forms when certain foods are cooked at high temperatures. However, updated guidance from organisations like WRAP and Love Food Hate Waste confirms that fridge storage is not only safe but also highly effective in preserving some produce. Moreover, an everyday fruit could become your potatoes' best companion as it enhances its shelf life.
“Storing potatoes with an apple helps prevent sprouting and keeps them fresher for longer,” explained the waste management specialist. “It’s an easy way to reduce waste and make your groceries last.” This method, which has gained traction across social media platforms, hinges on a simple bit of science.
“Ethylene gas helps regulate the ripening process, which can slow sprouting in potatoes,” said the expert. Apples naturally emit this gas, meaning a single apple placed among your potatoes can work wonders—provided they’re also kept in a suitable environment. “For the best results, combine this method with proper storage – keeping potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry environment,” they advised.
And while the fridge now gets the green light, one thing to absolutely avoid is sealing potatoes in plastic bags—another preconceived habit. Plastic bags trap moisture and accelerate spoilage, so experts recommend using a breathable paper bag or even a cardboard box to help maintain the right conditions..
