How should food be arranged in a refrigerator for optimal safety?

Arranging food in a refrigerator for optimal safety is crucial in preventing cross-contamination, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. The correct order places raw meat on the bottom, followed by dairy products, and then produce.

This arrangement is effective because raw meat can harbor harmful pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, which can drip onto other foods if placed above them. By storing raw meat on the bottom shelf, any potential drips are contained, thereby protecting other food items from contamination.

Dairy products are less likely to be contaminated compared to raw meat and can safely be stored above it. Produce, while often still needing proper washing before consumption, is generally safe to be placed above dairy products. This order not only reduces the risk of foodborne illness but also adheres to best practices for food storage.

In contrast, other arrangements might increase the risk of contamination. For instance, placing produce or dairy above raw meat could lead to juices from the meat dripping down onto these foods, thus compromising their safety. Therefore, maintaining the correct hierarchy in food storage within the refrigerator is vital for optimal food safety.