A Guide to Food Labeling and Storing

Dec. 31, 2012 - PRLog -- Food safety is a primary concern for every area of the commercial kitchen, including in the storage area to ensure that food borne illnesses aren’t spread. This means that food should be labeled and stored in the correct way.

FIFO

The most important rule in food storage is to follow the First In, First Out (FIFO) rule. The FIFO rule protects both food safety and food quality. Whenever new shipments of food arrive, the newer food is placed behind the older food so the older food is used first; this applies for both cold and dry storage. It also helps to label all food with the date it was received and a "use by" date to assure proper food safety and freshness.

Loading a refrigerator

When it comes to loading a refrigerator, as well as making sure it isn’t overloaded as if there are too many items stacked in a refrigerator, the unit will have to work too hard to maintain the proper temperature. Also when loading the refrigerator, make sure meat is placed as low as possible. Even if it is in a sealed container, meat or meat dishes should be stored below other items so meat juices cannot drip down onto other food.

Any food that needs to be stored should be held in an air-tight container in order to increase the shelf life and maintain the quality of the food. Air-tight containers, like food pans with lids, also help prevent spills when carrying foods from one area of the kitchen to another.

Storing food on shelves

The 2009 FDA Food Code states that all food must be stored at least six inches above the floor. This is to prevent water, dust or other contaminants from soaking through bags or otherwise contaminating the food.

Make sure shelves and floors are clean and organized. Anywhere there is dirt or food spills, bacteria can grow, so keeping floors and shelves clean are a must for maintaining proper food safety in the kitchen. Organized shelves with the items clearly labeled also decreases the amount of time employees have to hold the door open and locate items.

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