Refrigerated Food Risks: In today's busy life, people often cook large quantities of food at once and store it in the refrigerator, but do you know that food kept in the refrigerator can also be a home for bacteria?

Actually, bacteria start growing in food kept in the fridge for a long time, which can cause food poisoning. Its symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever etc. Therefore, let us tell you in this article what harm can happen to the health of people who often eat food kept in the fridge and what is the right way to store food (How Long to Keep Food in Fridge).

Why is food kept in the fridge harmful?Nutrient Deficiency

Keeping food in the refrigerator for a long time can reduce its nutritional value. Essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and enzymes are destroyed over time. In particular, vitamin C and B complex vitamins are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and their quantity decreases when stored in the refrigerator.

Changes in taste and texture

The taste and texture of some foods may also change when stored in the refrigerator. For example, leafy vegetables may lose their crispness and salad leaves may turn black. Also, some fruits may lose their flavor and look bland.

The danger of bacteria

The low temperature in the refrigerator slows down the growth of bacteria, but it does not mean it stops it completely. Some types of bacteria can also thrive at low temperatures and contaminate food items. If food items are not packed properly or if the refrigerator temperature is not maintained correctly, bacteria can grow rapidly and cause food poisoning .

Drying of food items

The air circulation in a refrigerator can cause some food items to dry out. This is especially true for items with exposed surfaces, such as fruits and vegetables. Dry foods lose their taste and texture and may become unfit for consumption.

fridge burn problem

Fridge burn is a condition in which the surface of food items becomes dry and brown. It occurs when moisture from foods evaporates and ice crystals form. Fridge burn spoils the taste and nutrition of food items.

What is the correct way to store food?

Every type of food has a different time to be kept in the fridge. So that it does not get spoiled and you stay healthy.

• Vegetables: Most vegetables can stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Fruits: Many fruits can stay good in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Eggs and meat: These things should be finished within 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Cooked food: Do not keep cooked food in the refrigerator for more than 5-6 hours.
• After cooking: Put the food in the fridge within 1-2 hours of cooking.
• Refrigerator temperature: Keep the refrigerator temperature between 2-3 degrees Celsius.
• Cooked vegetables: Do not keep cooked vegetables in the refrigerator for more than 3-4 hours.
• Eat after heating: Always eat vegetables taken out from the refrigerator after heating them.
• Keep separate: Keep raw and cooked food separately in the refrigerator.