People are unknowingly putting their health at risk by incorrectly storing meat in their fridges, as revealed by a recent survey conducted by AO.com. The survey highlighted that over 50% of Brits were storing raw meat in unsafe positions in their fridges, increasing the chances of cross-contamination and the spread of harmful bacteria such as campylobacter and E. coli.
Food storage expert Sarah Heaps issued a health warning, emphasizing that raw meat should always be placed on the bottom shelf of the fridge, the coldest part. Additionally, it should be wrapped or stored in a sealed container to prevent any juices containing harmful bacteria from contaminating other food in the fridge. The survey found that nearly a quarter of individuals stored raw meat on the middle shelf, heightening the risk of cross-contamination.
Furthermore, 7% stored meat on the top shelf, increasing this risk, while 12% used drawers meant for fruits and vegetables. These practices were flagged as alarming by Sarah, who stressed the importance of storing raw meat only on the bottom shelf to avoid food-borne illnesses. She warned against storing meat elsewhere in the fridge to prevent bacterial contamination of other foods.
The expert highlighted the importance of proper meat storage to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and ensure kitchen hygiene. By following guidelines for storing raw meat safely, households can minimise the risk of food poisoning and other health hazards associated with improper food handling.