What is the correct method for storing raw meat in a refrigerator?

Storing raw meat in a refrigerator requires specific practices to ensure food safety and prevent contamination. The correct method involves placing raw meat on the bottom shelf and in a leak-proof container. This serves several key purposes.

Firstly, storing raw meat on the bottom shelf prevents any potential drippings from contaminating other foods. If meat is placed on higher shelves, the juices could drip onto ready-to-eat items, causing cross-contamination and increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Secondly, using a leak-proof container not only contains the meat itself but also ensures that any liquid that may escape during storage does not leak onto other foods or the interior of the refrigerator. This containment is crucial in maintaining a safe food storage environment.

Other choices do not comply with safety standards. For instance, storing raw meat on the top shelf or in an open container poses a risk of cross-contamination. Keeping meat in a drawer away from other items might not provide adequate protection against leaks and also may not adhere to safety guidelines regarding temperature and air circulation. Lastly, storing meat at room temperature is unsafe as it fosters bacterial growth and significantly increases the risk of foodborne illness.