MOST of us see the fridge as the ideal place to store and preserve food, but it seems there are some foods which just don't belong there.
Consumer advocacy group Choice lists some popular foods that shouldn't go in the fridge:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are sensitive to a gas known as ethylene, which accelerates ripening.
It is best to keep them separate from ethylene-producing foods, such as bananas, apples, pears and oranges, to ensure they stay fresh for longer.
Research also shows that chilling tomatoes below 12 degrees Celsius limits their ability to generate substances that contribute to aroma and taste.
Coffee
Coffee works as a deodoriser and absorbs moisture and flavours from the air around it, so if stored in the fridge it is likely to absorb the flavours of other foods.
It should be stored in an airtight container in a dark place such as the pantry where it won't be exposed to sunlight, heat or moisture.
Coffee beans can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
Uncut root vegetables
Vegetables such as potatoes, onions, sweet potato and garlic can rot faster under the high humidity of fridges and are best stored in a cool, dark, dry spot.
Root vegetables also should not be stored together.
Some vegetables such as onions and pumpkins should be stored in the fridge once they have been cut.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil will solidify at temperatures lower than 24 degrees Celsius, so it is best kept in a dark, dry place such as the pantry.
Most nut and seed oils, however, are best kept in the fridge to prevent them from oxidising and going rancid quickly.
Bread
Bread will go stale much faster in the fridge than if kept in the pantry and is best kept in an airtight tin, bread box or in the case of hard-crusted breads, in a paper bag.
Plastics should be avoided as they will encourage bread to go mouldy faster.
Bread can be kept in the freezer to prevent it from going stale.
Honey and peanut butter
Honey and nut spreads vary and need different kinds of storage, so it is always best to check the label.
Honey is one of the few foods in the world which never spoils because bacteria can't grow in it.
If refrigerated, it crystalises but is still edible.
Peanut butter stays good in the pantry for up to three months after opening.
Refrigeration may extend its shelf life, but will also harden it and make it more difficult to spread.
Basil and parsley
Some herbs such as mint and coriander are best kept in the fridge crisper, but basil and parsley go bad if kept in the crisper.
Basil and parsley should be stored by cutting the bottom of the stems, placing them in a jar with a small amount of water and leaving the jar in a cool place.
Warm leftovers
Putting hot food in the fridge can interfere with internal temperature, so warm leftovers should be left to cool to room temperature before storage.
For more on Choice, click here.