As high temperatures continue across the country, Albert Bartlett is reminding families that one everyday kitchen staple could help stretch household budgets. Potatoes can stay fresher for longer when stored correctly, reducing waste while also offering a variety of unexpected uses during the summer.
Current scientific advice recommends keeping potatoes in the fridge rather than a cupboard. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life by up to three times, although around 80 per cent of people are still unaware of this updated recommendation*.
Food waste tends to increase during the summer, with families throwing away approximately 30 per cent more fresh food than they do in colder months. Correct potato storage could help households save around £25 over the summer period.
Experts also recommend checking fridge temperatures. Keeping appliances between 3°C and 5°C helps preserve food quality and reduces the risk of bacterial growth, although many fridges are operating above this range.
Molly Borys from Albert Bartlett said: “Potatoes are incredibly versatile and become even more valuable during the summer months. Simply storing them correctly helps reduce waste while giving families an affordable ingredient that’s always ready to use.”
She added: “Understanding the latest storage guidance can make a meaningful difference for shoppers looking to cut food waste and save money.”
Consumer expert Kate Hardcastle MBE said: “Making savings doesn’t always require dramatic lifestyle changes. Small adjustments to how we store and use food can have a noticeable impact on household spending.”
She added: “Potatoes continue to be one of the UK’s best-value foods, yet many are still discarded unnecessarily. Better storage habits allow families to get much more from every purchase.”
Albert Bartlett also points out that potatoes have several practical household uses. They can ease sunburn, reduce the appearance of tired eyes, shine shoes, prevent glasses from fogging, keep lunchboxes cool when frozen and even help root plant cuttings.