What type of food should be placed above raw meat in storage?

When storing food in a refrigerator or storage area, it is essential to keep ready-to-eat food above raw meats. The primary reason for this practice is to prevent cross-contamination. Ready-to-eat foods, such as fruits, vegetables, cooked grains, and salads, are foods that do not require further cooking before consumption. If raw meat is stored above these items, any drips or spills from the raw meat could contaminate the ready-to-eat food with harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Storing ready-to-eat food above raw meat helps to ensure safety and minimize food safety hazards in the kitchen. This practice is part of the food safety guidelines that recommend proper food storage procedures, including maintaining cleanliness and organization in the refrigerator.