Knowing how to store raw fish in the refrigerator properly is essential for seafood lovers weather you are cooking it the same day or keeping it for later, proper storage of the fish is crucial to maintain its quality and prevent foodborne illnesses of a result of being contaminated by bacteria.
Now, you might be wondering where to store your raw fish in the refrigerator for it to be well preserved to remain fresh and safe for consumption.
Where Should You Store Raw Fish in a Refrigerator?
There are specific guidelines you must follow when you are storing raw fish inside your refrigerator.
Choose the Right Temperature Zone: First and foremost, the ideal temperature range for storing raw fish is between 32°F and 38°F (0°C and 3°C) because it slows down the degradation or decay of the raw fish because of the inhibition to the growth of bacteria.
The fish is kept fresh for a long period. Go and note the different areas of your refrigerator and their varying temperature zones to know which of the zone is coldest using a sensitive thermometer.
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Place in the Coldest Part of the Refrigerator: After noting the coldest temperature zone in your refrigerator, place the raw fish in that section.
Fridges I have used and come across; the coldest section is usually at the back of the bottom shelf. Most people tend to store their perishables including fish in the door compartment of their fridge, but this is not advisable especially for raw fish as the temperature fluctuates more at the door compartment.
Always place your raw fish on the back of the bottom shelf not only for optimum freshness but also to prevent potential drips or leaks from contaminating other foods.
Use Airtight Containers or Wrapping: You should store your raw fish in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wraps to prevent the fish from being contaminated and maintain the fish moisture. Another advantage of this is that the fish odor is prevented from permeating other foods in the refrigerator.
Store on a Bed of Ice: In a situation where the fridge is not cold enough or faulty, then make a bed of ice in a container and place the raw fish on the bed of crushed ice or ice pack.
Then transfer the container of fish into the refrigerator to help maintain the fish freshness. You should avoid direct contact between the fish and the ice so as not to compromise the texture of the fish.
Keep Fish Whole or Cut into Steaks and Fillets: When storing whole fish or fillets there are some specific steps to take to store them properly.
Whole fish should be gutted and cleaned very well before storage in the fridge while the fillets and steaks should be tightly wrapped and placed in containers.
Regularly Monitor Temperature: Monitor the temperature of your refrigerator regularly to ensure that its temperature remains below the recommended level for your food safety. If you are storing raw meat know that it is also stored as described above for raw fish.
Recommended Storage Duration for Raw Fish in the Refrigerator
I have written an article on the duration raw fish is expected to stay in the refrigerator but know that raw fish can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within this time frame.
If you don’t intend to use it within this time frame you must place the raw fish in the freezer to extend its shelf life up to 3 months at a temperature of -18°C.
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Foods Least Likely to Support Bacteria Growth
Foods with high acidity are less likely to support bacteria growth. Examples of such foods are pickled vegetables or foods high in sugar like jams and jellies. On the other hand, foods like raw meat and fish are susceptible to bacterial growth.
Wrapping up you now understand why the need to store raw fish or meat in the refrigerator to preserve their freshness and ensure food safety.
If you follow the recommended guidelines for storage durations and temperature to prevent foodborne illness you will always be rest assured of eating a healthy meal.
