Maintain an optimal temperature
Keep your refrigerator below 4°C. At this temperature the bacteria that spoils food grows slowly and allows food to be stored longer.
Separate raw and cooked foods
Keep ready-to-eat foods on top. Place leftovers, cooked meals, and ready-to-eat items on the upper shelves to minimise the risk of contamination.
Place perishable items like raw meat and cold meats on the lower shelves to prevent cross-contamination with other foods. Also store raw meats in sealed containers or leak-proof bags, ideally on a tray or in a designated drawer to prevent juices from contaminating other items.
Fruits and vegetables are best stored in the dedicated crisper drawer. Also there, make sure that you keep clear visibility, so that you see what’s left to consume, thus reducing wastage.
Maximise Storage Also in the Door
To maximise your storage needs, without overcrowding, it is important that you use all parts of the fridge wisely, including the door. It is important to choose a refrigerator which has a lot of usable storage space in the door, where you can put all your bottles, even big ones. KIC fridges excel in this: in our 60 cm Bottom Mount range all our fridges Big Balcony can fit up to 4 pcs of 2.25L bottles. Even the models with a Water Dispenser. And the rest of the space can be arranged the way you want thanks to the adjustable balconies.
Understand Shelf Life and Expiration Dates
Checking the expiration dates is vital and always pay attention to the “best before” dates on food packaging. Consume the items before these dates to ensure quality and safety.
Certain perishable foods have specific storage time periods. For example, raw meats should be consumed within a few days, while some dairy products can last longer.
Properly Wrap and Seal Foods
Use airtight containers and store leftovers, chopped fruits, and vegetables in sealed containers to retain their moisture and prevent cross-contamination.
When wrapping raw meat, place it in a secure plastic wrap or store them in resealable bags to avoid leaks.
Additionally, cover open cans or transfer their contents to airtight containers before refrigeration.
Avoid Overcrowding
Maximising fridge space may seem convenient, but overcrowding can hinder proper airflow and compromise food safety. So leave space for circulation and allow cool air to flow by avoiding overcrowding. This promotes consistent temperature distribution, preventing certain areas from becoming too warm.
Maintain visibility
Clear out expired or spoiled items regularly. Keeping your fridge clutter-free allows you to easily identify and access the foods you need.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your stored food. Organise your fridge, understand expiration dates, wrap and seal foods properly, avoid overcrowding, and maintain proper temperature control. By implementing these practices, you can enjoy fresh, delicious meals while keeping food borne illnesses at bay. Stay safe and happy storing!
