It’s the age-old debate that has divided households across Australia for decades – but now MasterFoods has revealed the answer.
The decision to store opened bottles of tomato sauce in the fridge or pantry has divided families across Australia for decades.
But Master Foods, the maker of one of the country’s most popular tomato sauce brands, has “finally” decided to step in.
But be careful, for one side of the argument, the answer is definitely not good news.
The old controversy over tomato sauce has finally been settled. Photo: Supplied
There is only one place in our homes where the famous red sauce bottles are found, said Ross Mill, head of research and development at Masterfoods.
“I started working on MasterFoods recipes over 15 years ago, and I like to pride myself on knowing a thing or two about sauce,” he said.
As Australia’s favourite tomato sauce, we can finally settle the debate. MasterFoods will always recommend keeping it refrigerated.
“This helps maintain its quality so it tastes and looks fresher for longer. The low temperature also helps slow down the aging process, preserving its bright red color and strong tomato flavor.”
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It’s not all bad news for those who prefer to keep it in the cupboard, Mill said, explaining that offenders who keep ketchup in the cupboard are unlikely to suffer any harmful consequences.
“Technically, tomato sauce has a fixed shelf life, since its ingredients include salt and sugar, which are natural preservatives,” he added.
After being sealed at the factory, it can be stored in the cabinet until opened.
“However, once a new bottle is opened and exposed to air, it will age faster—turning dark brown and lacking the tomato flavor—and may spoil over time if not stored in the refrigerator. Always check the expiration date.”
‘Finally’: Australian brand ends tomato sauce lie. Photo: Supplied
The Australian food manufacturer, which launched in 1945, also revealed some new data from its 2024 study that suggests preferences for storing uncovered sauce depend on age and gender.
Young Australians strongly believe that tomato sauce is best kept in the fridge, with 58% of Gen Z and millennials choosing to serve it chilled, according to Masterfoods.
However, nearly half of baby boomers prefer to eat food from the cupboard, research finds.
This is not the first time a well-known sauce manufacturer has intervened in this heated debate.
Heinz, which makes the world-famous tomato ketchup, She revealed the “correct” way to store her bottles. In June 2023.
“FYI: Ketchup. Should. Be. In. The. Refrigerator!!!” reads a post shared on the official X brand page.
