Can plant-based meat be stored alongside regular meat?

Question

Is it safe to store plant-based meats next to regular meat in the fridge? Learn the best practices to avoid cross-contamination.

Answer 1

Plant-based meat should be stored separately from regular meat to prevent cross-contamination and maintain food safety. It's best to treat plant-based meat like any other perishable food item and store it properly.

Detailed Explanation:

While plant-based meat doesn't carry the same risks of bacterial contamination as raw animal meat, it's still susceptible to spoilage and can harbor bacteria. Storing it alongside regular meat increases the risk of cross-contamination, where bacteria from the raw meat can transfer to the plant-based product. This is especially important if the plant-based meat is intended for someone with dietary restrictions or health concerns. To ensure food safety, store plant-based meat in a separate section of your refrigerator, ideally in a sealed container or bag. This prevents any potential drips or contact with raw meat. Also, be mindful of expiration dates and follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage and handling.

Pro Tip:

Use separate cutting boards and utensils when preparing plant-based meat and regular meat to avoid cross-contamination, even if you plan to cook them separately.