Few foodie debates divide the nation quite as much as the argument over whether or not tomato ketchup should be kept in the fridge, and even the likes of Cardi B and Victoria Beckham have previously offered their opinions on the subject.
It would appear we now have a definitive answer from Heinz itself, but not everybody will be too happy about it. This comes after a study of 2,000 people discovered that four in 10 (41 per cent) of Brits have been storing their Heinz Tomato Ketchup in the cupboard rather than the fridge.
Turns out, this is completely wrong, as confirmed by sauce giant Heinz in a recent, and surprisingly controversial, tweet.
In a statement that has caused quite a stir, Heinz tweeted: "FYI: Ketchup. goes. in. the. fridge!!!"
Ketchup lovers were left aghast at this revelation, with one fan replying: "Never, ever has it ever gone in my fridge, nor anybody else's."
Another commented: "Mmmm… A nice piping hot steak bake. Let me smother it with a condiment the same temperature as my milk."
Taking a different view, a third person applauded: "Yes Heinz! Can you tell my boyfriend to do so? He keeps it on the countertop and it tastes [disgusted face emoji]".
As pointed out by many of those on Team Fridge, instructions printed on the label of the bottle clearly specify that the sauce should be refrigerated after it's been opened, so this verdict shouldn't come as too much of a surprise.
Heinz Tomato Ketchup spokesperson Olivia Lennon said: "There was only ever one correct answer, and we're happy to share with Heinz Tomato Ketchup lovers across the UK that our ketchup has to be in the fridge.
"Although we're aware many Heinz Tomato Ketchup fans have been storing their ketchup in the cupboard, we do recommend refrigeration after opening.
"This is the best way to maintain the delicious tangy taste of our Heinz Tomato Ketchup that you know and love."
Many Team Cupboard followers pointed out that Heinz Tomato Ketchup is kept on the shelf, not the fridge, at the supermarket, but there's a scientific reason behind this.
Ketchup has natural acidity, which means it's shelf-stable. Once opened, however, storage conditions can negatively affect the product, meaning it's best to pop your bottle straight into the fridge after your first dollop.
Do you have a food-related story to share? Email us at julia.banim@reachplc.com
