Where should raw poultry be stored in a refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination?

• A. On the bottom shelf, below ready-to-eat foods (or in sealed containers).
• B. On the top shelf above ready-to-eat foods.
• C. Next to dairy products at any shelf.
• D. In the freezer.

Answer: (A)

Raw poultry can contaminate other foods through its juices, so it must be kept separate from ready-to-eat items in the refrigerator. The best practice is to place raw poultry on the bottom shelf, ideally in a leak-proof container, so any drips stay below foods that won’t be cooked before eating. This setup uses gravity to prevent contact with foods stored above and reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

Placing raw poultry on the top shelf would let drips fall onto foods below, increasing contamination risk. Storing it next to dairy doesn’t solve the problem, since leakage could still reach ready-to-eat items. Storing in the freezer isn’t about refrigerator storage and isn’t appropriate if you’re aiming to keep it in the fridge for use soon.