Food Storage Concerns

Food is stored in various ways, depending on the food item. Storing food in a freezer should be labeled so you are reminded when it needs to be cooked or thrown away. Food stored in the freezer for too long can become freezer burnt. Preserving food should be followed according to the recipe and other guidelines.

Refrigerated Foods

There are some foods that require refrigeration at all times, such as fruit, vegetables, and dairy products. Raw meat that is left in the refrigerator for cooling should be removed within two days. The temperature in a refrigerator should remain around 40 degrees. Cooked food that has been leftover can also be stored in the refrigerator; let the food cool prior to placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezer Foods

Foods stored in the freezer can last up to three months as long as the temperature is kept at zero degrees or lower. In order to effectively work, the freezer should not open and closed often; also avoid overloading the freezer. A freezer is considered overloaded when it is over 75 percent full. Foods become freezer burnt when they are not in an airtight container or freezer bag; the exposure to the air in the freezer causes damages to the meat (freezer burn).

Preserved Foods

There are canning recipes that should be followed when you are preserving foods. Foods that are not properly canned can cause illnesses, such as botulism. Botulism is a rare, but serious illness that is cause from foods being improperly preserved. When preserving foods you often are required to add acids such as salt and vinegar. The acids are used to reduce the possibility of bacteria being able to grow within the canned item. Jars that are used to preserve food must be thoroughly cleansed; follow guidelines that are in place for cleaning jars. Food that is preserved with a container that has a lid should be used in a weeks’ time.