Most Ukrainians organize their products in the refrigerator incorrectly: this is dangerous.

According to ТСН: When you plan a festive table or do shopping for the week, it is important to keep in mind that many people inefficiently organize space in the refrigerator. This can lead to spoilage of products, loss of freshness, and an increased risk of bacterial growth.

Consumer experts from 'Which?' note that the temperature in the refrigerator varies by shelf, so it is important to place products correctly. Tight packing of products, when they touch the shelves, prevents the circulation of cold air, which can raise the temperature and provoke bacterial growth.

The key to safety: proper placement of products

To maintain product freshness, follow these recommendations:

1. Bottom shelf: this is the coldest place in the refrigerator where raw meat, poultry, and fish should be stored. This helps to prevent raw juices from contaminating other products.

2. Middle shelves: it is advisable to place ready meals, semi-finished products, and sliced meats here if there is not enough space on the bottom shelf. It is better to store sauces and seasonings on the upper middle shelves.

3. Top shelf and door shelves: this is the warmest place. It is an ideal place for dairy products (cheese, butter), as they are less susceptible to spoilage. Desserts based on cream can also be stored here.

For vegetables and fruits, it is advisable to use drawers, as the specific climate and humidity in them are ideal for storage of vegetables.

Also, many vegetables, such as parsnips, carrots, onions, garlic, and potatoes, can be stored at room temperature. Tomatoes, bananas, and melons should also not be refrigerated.

Don't forget that Christmas pudding and various types of baked goods (bread, cake, meat pies) can be stored at room temperature.

Tips to avoid food poisoning

Experts emphasize the importance of ensuring safety:

• Use a food thermometer to check the safe internal temperature of food.

• Never thaw frozen products on the countertop. It is better to do this in the refrigerator, in the microwave, or in cold water.

• Perishable products should be refrigerated within two hours of purchase.

It is worth noting that preparing 12 traditional dishes for the Christmas dinner in 2025 will cost an average family approximately 1,374 UAH. The most expensive dishes remain fried fish, kutya, and uzvar.

According to forecasts, prices for certain products may rise by approximately 10% before the Christmas holidays and New Year.

Properly storing products in the refrigerator not only helps maintain their freshness but also reduces the risk of food poisoning. By following expert recommendations, you can significantly improve safety and food quality during holiday preparations.