Why Is Food Storage Important?

Milk stored on a bottom shelf in your fridge stays fresh longer.

You can save money, keep your family healthier and get rid of pests in your home by learning how to store food properly. When you put food in the right place and in the right containers, you may even find that your food tastes better.

Safety

Bacteria grow fastest in food that's between 45 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (72 and 60 degrees Celsius). Meat, dairy, fish, poultry or eggs that sit for more than two hours in that temperature zone could make you sick.

Spoilage

Many fruits produce ethylene gas as they ripen. Other produce exposed to this gas may ripen and spoil faster, so storing produce properly reduces spoilage.

Pests

Grains and flour that are stored improperly can attract insects. The University of California recommends storing those foods in tightly closed containers.

Cost

Tim Jones, a researcher at the University of Arizona, found that the average U.S. family of four throws out $467-worth of food each year, much of it due to spoilage.

Quality

Proper storage protects food from contamination by other flavors and odors and helps preserve nutrients.

References

• MSNBC: Fridge Findings: Learn Where to Store Your Food
• U.S. Department of Agriculture: How Temperatures Affect Food
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association: Home Storage Guide for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Resources

• U.S. Department of Agriculture: Food Safety Basics
• University of California: Pantry Pests
• Community Composting Network: Food Loss in the American Food System