How should raw meat be stored in a refrigerator to avoid cross-contamination?

Raw meat should be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator, below ready-to-eat foods. This is crucial for preventing cross-contamination, which could occur if juices from the raw meat drip onto other foods that are ready to be consumed directly.

By placing raw meat on the bottom shelf, it ensures that any potential drips fall downwards and do not contaminate other items, such as salads, fruits, or cooked foods stored higher up in the refrigerator. This creates a safer food storage environment and adheres to food safety guidelines meant to protect public health.

The choice of storing raw meat in a sealed container is also a good practice for avoiding contamination; however, it does not address the importance of shelf positioning to prevent dripping. Storing raw meat on the top shelf or next to fruits and vegetables is particularly risky, as it increases the chances of cross-contamination and the transfer of harmful bacteria. Thus, proper storage technique is essential for food safety.