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How and where you store food in your refrigerator and how long you store it for, are all very important food safety factors. Different areas of the refrigerator cool to slightly different temperatures, which is why it's important to store food in the correct area. Overall, the temperature inside your refrigerator should be 37.4-41 degrees F . Bacteria multiply fast at higher temperatures. A good thermometer inside your refrigerator is a must so you can adjust the temperature, if necessary. Always wrap food correctly and never keep food for too long. The following tips are given for preserving your food and retaining the nutrients by Dial-A-Maid cleaning service in Evanston, Il 60201. Dairy products, including all cheeses, should be wrapped well and placed on the top shelf. Soft cheeses should keep for a week, hard cheeses for up to 3weeks. Meat Cooked should be stored in a glass dish covered with plastic wrap. Keep separate from raw meat. Store for 3-4 days. Raw Meat and Poultry should be well wrapped and placed in the lower part of the refrigerator to prevent blood from dripping. The blood may carry bacteria that can contaminate other food. Once meat is cooked, the risk of contamination falls. Fresh vegetables and fruit should be stored on the lower shelves and in the crispers for up to a week, depending on the type of vegetable and fruit. To prevent waste, check what you've got daily and use in soups and stir-fries before they wilt.
Milk should be stored in the refrigerator door to keep it within easy reach. It will keep from 1-2 weeks, depending on the fat content. Keep the container closed.The temperature of the shelves in the door fluctuates more than in the main cabinet, so don't store highly perishable foods, such as fresh meat or fish, there. Don't open the door more than necessary and always close it as soon as possible. Fruit drinks can be stored either in the door or in the main compartment. Unopened cartons of fresh juice will last up to 3 weeks, but open cartons should be used within 7-10 days. Store leftovers in airtight, lidded containers so they don't dry out. Eat them within 2-4 days.
Sprinkle half a lemon with baking soda to keep the refrigerator smelling fresh. Replace it as necessary, but at least every 2 weeks.Clean and sanitize your refrigerator at least once every 2 weeks with baking soda and warm water. We, here at Dial-A-Maid cleaning service in Evanston, il. 60201, have been cleaning and sanitizing refrigerators for over 40 years.
