Receiving & StorageQuestion 140 of 320

Why is storing raw poultry above ready-to-eat food dangerous, even inside sealed containers on both?

a.It makes the cooler smell bad
b.It slows down airflow
c.It is only a labeling issue
d.If a container leaks or drips, raw poultry juices can contaminate the ready-to-eat food below with pathogens like Salmonella

Explanation

Storing raw poultry above ready-to-eat food is dangerous because a leak, spill, or condensation drip can carry Salmonella and Campylobacter down onto food that will not be cooked again. That is why raw poultry belongs on the bottom shelf regardless of packaging. The concern is contamination, not odor, airflow, or mere labeling; proper storage order is a physical barrier against cross-contamination.

Law Reference: FDA Food Code §3-302.11

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