How should ready-to-eat foods be stored in relation to raw foods in the refrigerator?

Ready-to-eat foods should be stored above raw foods in the refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination. This is crucial because raw foods, particularly meats, poultry, and seafood, can harbor harmful pathogens that pose a risk to food safety. If ready-to-eat foods are placed below raw foods, any leaks or drips from the raw foods could contaminate the ready-to-eat items, leading to foodborne illnesses.

This practice aligns with food safety standards that prioritize minimizing risk of contamination. Proper storage also helps maintain the integrity of ready-to-eat foods and ensures that they are safe to consume without the need for further cooking. By keeping these items stored appropriately, culinary teams can ensure a safer food handling environment, which is essential in food service operations.