Food Storage 101: 10 mistakes you should avoid while storing food in the fridge

Overcrowding the fridge Overcrowding the fridge blocks airflow causing uneven cooling and faster food spoilage.

Storing hot food Storing hot food directly without first letting it cool down to room temperature raises the temperature of the fridge, encouraging bacterial growth and food spoilage.

Improperly sealing containers  Sealing containers improperly allows moisture and odours to escape and spread through the fridge. This can reduce food freshness.

Placing dairy in the door  The temperature greatly fluctuates near the door of the fridge, which can lead to milk and dairy products getting spoiled faster.

Not labelling leftovers It is important to label leftovers in your fridge as it can lead to forgotten and expired food. Be mindful to always date and label items.

Ignoring temperature settings  Be mindful to keep your fridge at low temperatures to keep the food fresh for longer. Keep the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) for safety.

Washing produce before storage  It is better to store fruits and vegetables dry in the refrigerator as moisture accelerates spoilage. So, wash them when ready to eat.

Storing raw meat on upper shelves Storing raw meat on upper shelves increases the chances of contamination. So, it is important to keep meat on the bottom shelf.

Leaving food uncovered This exposes the food to bacteria and absorbs odours making it toxic or unhealthy. Always use airtight containers.

Not cleaning spills immediately  Spills tend to encourage the growth of bacteria. It is better to clean up messes as quickly as possible.

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