Where should raw poultry be stored in a refrigerator relative to ready-to-eat foods?

• A. On the top shelf above ready-to-eat foods.
• B. In the same shelf as ready-to-eat foods with no separation.
• C. On the second shelf from the bottom, with a separate cover.
• D. On the bottom shelf, or below ready-to-eat foods.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is preventing cross-contamination in the fridge by keeping raw poultry away from ready-to-eat foods. Raw poultry can carry bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, and its juices can contaminate foods that won’t be cooked before eating. Placing raw poultry on the bottom shelf puts it below ready-to-eat items, so any drips drain downward rather than onto foods that are ready to eat. Using a leak-proof container on that bottom shelf adds extra protection for any spills.

If raw poultry were stored higher up or on the same shelf without good separation, its juices could drip onto or contact ready-to-eat foods, increasing the risk of illness. A nearby shelf with a cover is an improvement over no separation but still not as safe as keeping raw poultry on the bottom shelf. Therefore, bottom shelf storage (or below ready-to-eat foods) is the safest practice.