Why should raw and cooked foods be stored separately in the fridge?

Question

Discover why separate storage for raw and cooked foods is a critical safety rule. Learn how to arrange your fridge to prevent cross-contamination.

Answer 1

Raw and cooked foods should be stored separately in the fridge to prevent cross-contamination, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. This separation minimizes the risk of harmful bacteria from raw foods spreading to cooked foods that won't be cooked again.

Detailed Explanation:

Raw foods, especially meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs, often contain bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. These bacteria can be harmless when the food is properly cooked, as the heat kills them. However, if raw foods come into contact with cooked foods, these bacteria can transfer, a process known as cross-contamination. Cooked foods are ready to eat and won't undergo further cooking to eliminate these newly introduced bacteria.To prevent this, store raw meats, poultry, and seafood on the bottom shelves of your refrigerator. This prevents their juices from dripping onto cooked foods stored above. Cooked foods, ready-to-eat items, and leftovers should be stored on the upper shelves, away from any potential contamination. Always use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods to further minimize the risk. Proper storage temperatures are also crucial; keep your refrigerator at or below 4°C (40°F) to slow bacterial growth.

Pro Tip:

Always store raw meat in sealed containers or bags to prevent drips and leaks, even on the bottom shelf. This adds an extra layer of protection against cross-contamination and keeps your refrigerator cleaner.