## Maximize Fridge Efficiency: A Shelf-by-Shelf Guide to Food Storage
Did you know that your fridge is designed with specific compartments for different types of food? Understanding how to store your groceries properly can significantly reduce food waste and ensure optimal freshness. Salah Sun, Head of Product Management at Beko UK, a leading manufacturer of fridges and other appliances, emphasizes the importance of proper storage, saying, “You’ll be surprised by how much you can reduce your food waste by storing food properly.” According to Business Waste, an estimated 9.5 million tonnes of food are thrown away in the UK each year. This translates to wasted money and unnecessarily discarded resources.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to organizing your fridge for optimal food preservation:
Top Shelf: The Read-to-Eat Zone
The top shelf of your fridge is the warmest area. It’s the perfect spot for foods that don’t require extensive chilling or are ready to be enjoyed. Stock this shelf with:
* Deli meats
* Desserts
* Dips
Middle Shelf: The Dairy Haven
Cooler than the top shelf but not as cold as the bottom, this shelf is ideal for your dairy products. Place the following here:
* Cheese
* Yogurt
* Butter
* Eggs
* Milk
While it’s common to store milk on the middle shelf, placing it in the fridge door is a big no-no. The fridge door is the warmest part of the fridge and experiences constant temperature fluctuations as it’s opened and closed. This can significantly impact the freshness of your milk.
Fridge Door: The Preservation Zone
The fridge door is the best spot for preserved food items that are less likely to spoil. Store the following in this area:
* Condiments
* Jam
* Juice
* Soda drinks and water
Bottom Shelf: The Raw Food Zone
The coldest part of your fridge is the bottom shelf. It’s where you should always store your raw food to prevent cross-contamination:
* Raw meat
* Poultry
* Fish
Crisper Drawers: The Fresh Produce Paradise
The drawers, also known as crispers, are designed to increase humidity and control airflow, creating the perfect environment for fruits and vegetables. Keep the following items in these drawers:
* Fruit
* Vegetables
* Salads
* Fresh herbs
Maintain the Optimal Fridge Temperature
Beko UK recommends keeping your fridge temperature between 3C and 5C (37.4F and 41F) for optimal food preservation. By understanding the optimal storage locations for your different food items and maintaining the correct fridge temperature, you’ll extend their shelf life, minimize food waste, and ultimately save money. Happy organizing!
