Healthy eating includes more than ensuring you are receiving the recommended dose of vitamins and nutrients, but also that you are storing your food safely. In order to protect your loved ones and yourself from foodborne illness, proper refrigeration storage guidelines are imperative to adhere to.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, perishable food, including all meat and eggs, should be left out of the fridge for no longer than two hours. If the temperature is in excess of 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the maximum should be one hour. Because the “Danger Zone” for bacteria to grow at a rapid pace is between 40 and 140 degrees, refrigerators should maintain a constant temperature of 40 degrees or below. Regularly check the thermometer inside of your fridge to ensure it is running at the correct temperature. If your fridge does not include a built in thermometer, be sure to add one to be kept inside the appliance to monitor the temperature.
Placement of food within the fridge is important as well. If a fridge is stocked too full, it can prevent some items from receiving the proper cooling they need. Raw meat and seafood should be stored tightly wrapped or in containers to prevent dripping onto other items and produce. Perishable foods such as eggs should be kept on a shelf versus the door compartments, which are the warmest areas in the appliance. Most refrigerators come equipped with a variety of storage areas such as adjustable shelves and compartments. Crisper drawers are included to provide optimal storing conditions for vegetables, which require higher humidity. In addition, always marinate meat inside of your fridge, instead of on the counter, where bacteria are very likely to attack.
Food storage safety also means regularly cleaning of your fridge. Clean surfaces with hot, soapy water and wipe up all spills immediately. Throw out perishable foods once a week.
Click here for our printable guide of food storage safety tips to help you understand the meaning of food storage dates and current recommendations for how long food will last when properly refrigerated. If you have questions or concerns about how the seniors in your life are managing their food preparation or intake, our expert team at Eldercare Services is eager to help, so please contact us for a free assessment.