Do you store ketchup in the fridge or in the cupboard? It’s a debate that has raged on unanswered – until now. The condiment manufacturing company Heinz has finally given its verdict.

Heinz tomato ketchup is the most popular food brand in the UK. And for good reason. The delicious zingy sauce goes with virtually anything, from barbecue burgers to salty chips to melty fish fingers, often adding that perfect missing hit of flavour. What’s more, plenty of top chefs also use it in their cooking, as it can add richness and flavour to traditional tomato-based dishes. However, despite its popularity, millions of us are actually storing the product incorrectly.

After polling over 2,500 Brits over their preferred ketchup storage method on social media and finding that the answers were almost split down the middle, Heinz decided to settle the debate.

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According to the condiment conglomerate, ketchup should in fact be kept in the fridge. Heinz representative Olivia Lennon told the Daily Mail: “"There was only ever one correct answer, and we're happy to share with Heinz Tomato Ketchup lovers 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," she continued. "This is the best way to maintain the delicious tangy taste of our Heinz Tomato Ketchup that you know and love."

As it turns out, the answer has been in front of us all along. If you look at the back of the Heniz ketchup bottle, you’ll see that it states, “For Best Results, Refrigerate After Opening.” Of course, the fact that Heinz ketchup is sold on the shelf can suggest otherwise. However, this is simply because it’s acidity allows it to be shelf-stable. This means that ketchup can sit in a dry pantry for long periods of time unopened, but once used and exposed to air, is at risk of losing its colour, taste and freshness if not kept in a fridge.

The biggest sign that ketchup has begun to go off is if it begins to emit a sour smell. If you notice this, take care to check for mould or discolouration. In this case, it’s best to bin it as eating ketchup past its prime can lead to an upset stomach.

You may be confused as to why restaurants leave ketchup sitting out on tables instead of in a fridge. This is mainly because the turnover at a restaurant is much higher than at home, meaning that ketchup is usually replaced daily.