What to store in fridge?

Do you really need to keep ketchup in the fridge? And what about jam, mayonnaise and pickle? Microbiologist Dr Peter Barratt gives his verdict. The answers will surprise you

Not so long ago, jams, pickles and sauces were simply stored in the kitchen cupboard. No one ever seemed to get ill, despite jars of marmalade, mustard and ketchup remaining at room temperature for months on end. These days, the very same products come with clear instructions to refrigerate them immediately after opening. Has something radical changed in their formulation, something so drastic we're risking our health if they aren't kept chilled? Or are we falling foul of yet another example of today's overzealous health-and-safety culture?

Here, microbiologist Dr Peter Barratt gives his verdict on just how chilled out we can be when it comes to keeping our condiments in the cupboard.