Your fridge is an important part of your kitchen - it's where you store food so that it stays fresh and safe to eat. But did you know that there are specific ways to store different types of food so that they last longer and don’t spoil? In this blog post, we will outline how to store food in the fridge safely and smartly.
Fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and cooked foods all require different temperatures and containers for optimal storage. It’s important to know where each type of food should be stored and the correct containers to use.
It’s important to store fresh produce in the crisper, which is usually located at the bottom of your fridge. This area maintains a higher humidity and temperature to keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.
Store fruits and vegetables separately from each other in order to reduce cross-contamination. Fruits that give off ethylene gas, like apples and bananas, should also be stored in a separate container or bag.
Where should meat be stored in the fridge? It should be stored in the coldest part of your fridge, usually located near the top or back.
Raw meats should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods and contaminating them. While cooked meats can be stored in an airtight container or a zip-top bag.
It’s recommended to store dairy products on the top shelf of the fridge. Milk, yoghurt, cheese, and other dairy products should always be stored in airtight containers or sealed zip-top bags to prevent spoilage and contamination. Always check the expiration date on any dairy product before consuming it.
Baked goods that are made with raw dairy and eggs, such as a pumpkin, custard, or cream pie-or leftover buttercream frosting, should be stored in airtight containers. Wrapping them in a layer of plastic wrap or aluminium foil can also help to keep them fresh for longer.
To ensure that cooked food is safe to eat, it should be stored in airtight containers or zip-top bags and labelled with the date it was cooked. Always refrigerate cooked food within two hours of being cooked and consume it within three to four days.
Here are some tips to store food in the fridge the right way:
It is important to set your fridge at the proper temperature (4°C or lower) to prevent food spoilage. Different zones in the fridge should be used for different types of food. Meats and dairy products should be stored on top shelves, while produce and cooked foods should go on lower shelves.
There are a variety of containers that can be used to store food in the fridge, including:
● Glass: An excellent option for storing food as it is non-porous and does not absorb odours or flavours. It also has no risk of chemical leaching into the food.
● Plastic: An economical choice for storing food which comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is lightweight, durable, and can be reused multiple times if properly cared for. However, it can absorb odours and flavours over time and may contain toxins.
● Ceramic: It is a great option for storing food as it does not absorb odours or flavours and is non-toxic. However, the material can be brittle and break easily when dropped.
● Metal: It is durable and has good heat retention properties. It can also be used in both cold and hot temperatures.
Some of the most common types of wraps used for food storage include:
● Aluminium Foil: An effective way to store food in the fridge as it provides a strong barrier against moisture and odours.
● Plastic Wrap: Another popular choice for food storage as it can be used to tightly seal food and prevent air exposure.
● Parchment Paper: A great option for roasting and baking. It is also non-stick and will not absorb flavours or odours.
● Wax Paper: It is grease-resistant and creates a barrier between food and other surfaces, making it an ideal choice for wrapping sandwiches or storing delicate items like cake slices.
Labelling food items with the date they were purchased or cooked helps to ensure that all foods are consumed before their expiration date. Place labels directly on containers or bags, and make sure to remove any unused leftovers from the fridge after four days.
To ensure that you store food in the fridge in a healthy way, it is important to clean the fridge regularly. Clean out expired items and discard any spoiled food. Wipe down shelves with warm soapy water to remove any food particles or spills. Check all gaskets around doors for signs of wear or damage, as these could lead to air leaks that cause food to spoil faster.
Knowing how to store food in the fridge properly can help ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. These tips are an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can also help protect the environment by reducing food waste.
You can also learn how to keep a fridge smelling fresh to prevent bad smells and be aware of the problems that may cause food to spoil faster. Stay tuned to our blog for more guides on fridges and other home appliances!
At Toshiba Middle East, you will find a wide variety of fridges that appeal to different needs, such as single-door fridges, multi-door fridges, and more.