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Did you think you knew everything about fridge storage? Me too, until I came across the advice of a virologist that truly opened my eyes. There are simple rules, often ignored, that we should all follow to eat safely.
Why respecting food storage duration is crucial according to an expert
We often believe that the refrigerator is the ultimate guarantee against waste and health risks. In reality, even when kept cold, some foods don’t last as long as we think. Virologist Océane Sorel explains that microorganisms never take a vacation.
They develop slowly, changing the taste, smell, but above all the food safety. It’s not just an appearance issue; it can cause real food poisoning. So, it’s important to understand that you’re playing Russian roulette when you leave certain dishes in the fridge too long.
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Foods that are sensitive and must not be left in the fridge
I don’t know about you, but I often left ground meat or fresh fish in the fridge for more than a day, thinking it was fine. Well, that’s a mistake, because these products are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria if left over 24 hours. The same rule applies to homemade dishes with raw eggs, like mayonnaise or chocolate mousse. These treats are not immortal!
Moreover, the virologist insists that we consume these preparations quickly. This prevents dangerous bacterial development while keeping taste and texture at their best. I admit that this is exactly what I started doing after reading this.
What we can keep a little longer without risk
Don’t lose hope, there are foods that can be kept for more than 24 hours without problem. Homemade cooked dishes in good airtight containers can last up to three days. This is also the case for cream pastries, sliced cold cuts, or even meat bought from the butcher.
With hard-boiled eggs, we are even safe for 4 days. This small delay is really reassuring, especially as it does not compromise safety. It gets trickier when we forget to label or note the opening date. A simple trick, but super effective to keep track.
Why noting the date on your packaging changes everything
I admit I didn’t do it systematically, and often ended up throwing things away without knowing how long they’d been in the fridge. The virologist recommends always noting the vacuum sealing or opening date. It’s a simple gesture that prevents you from wondering if it’s still good or not.
Vacuum storage, by the way, is not just a gadget. It limits exposure to airborne bacteria, slowing their proliferation. But be careful, it’s not a magic wand that makes food last for weeks. The golden rule is always to consume quickly when it’s fresh.
The tip for handling freezer power outages
Another piece of information that can save your meal (and your budget) is what a virologist suggests to ensure a power outage hasn’t compromised freezing. The test is simple: just check for an intact ice cube or the temperature inside the freezer as soon as you return home.
If the ice has melted, it is likely that the food has experienced a temperature increase sufficient to restart bacterial growth. It’s better to throw out some products, even if they still look good. These little actions help avoid bad surprises.
How proper storage can limit risks
So yes, beyond durations, there is a whole art to storing food in the fridge. For example, raw meat is placed rather at the bottom to prevent drips everywhere. Cheese, on the other hand, likes a specific spot so as not to cause too strong odors for neighbors opposite.
These little habits help slow down the spread of pathogens, as cross-contamination is limited. The virologist insists on the need to always cover dishes — a very simple reflex, but sometimes forgotten, which pays off greatly in food safety.
How long can raw ground meat be stored in the fridge?
No more than 24 hours in an airtight container. Beyond that, bacterial risk increases rapidly.
Can cooked dishes be consumed beyond 3 days in the fridge?
It is advised not to exceed three days to avoid food poisoning.
Does vacuum storage indefinitely prolong the shelf life of food?
No, it slows bacterial growth, but you must always respect recommended durations.
How to know if frozen foods are still good after a power outage?
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Check if the ice is still intact and if the freezer stayed cold; otherwise, it’s better to throw out some products.
Is it important to note the opening date of food items?
Yes, it is a sure way to monitor their freshness and avoid consuming expired products.
