When a restaurant refrigerator isn’t well organized, it makes it more difficult for staff members to navigate the space and find the items they need. Even worse, it creates conditions that make health code violations much more likely. That’s why it’s essential to follow these do’s and don’ts when storing items inside a commercial refrigerator.

Do:

Avoid cross-contamination.

Cross-contamination of ingredients stored in the commercial refrigerator is a major health hazard and can result in costly fines. Avoid this by placing items like breads, condiments, and produce on the top shelf and meats on the lower shelf. Doing the opposite will allow juices and bacteria to drip down and contaminate the food items below.

Use labels.

Label stored items with the date they were put inside to track their freshness. You can also use color-coded bins for different categories, like vegetables and meats, to help organize the fridge. 

Follow FIFO procedures.

Using the first in, first out, (FIFO) method prevents inventory from spoiling. When storing new items, put them at the back of the shelf and bring the older supplies to the front to use first. You’ll also save money when you avoid letting ingredients spoil.

Don’t:

Store items too close together.

Proper spacing ensures the commercial refrigerator has enough airflow. Placing items too close together on the shelves restricts cooling distribution, so ingredients spoil faster. Leave a two-inch gap between items.

Put anything on the floor.

Storing items on the floor violates health code regulations and can result in costly fines. It also increases the likelihood of a pest infestation. Everything should be elevated off the floor or stored on shelves.

Neglect cleaning.

Clean the commercial fridge at least once every six months to prevent mold and mildew growth. When the machine is empty for cleaning, inspect it for issues like excessive ice buildup as well, so you can seek prompt appliance repairs as needed.

If you’re having any issues with your commercial refrigerator, contact the experts at Pacific Ice Services in Honolulu, HI. For more than 40 years, this locally owned company has helped business owners maintain their commercial equipment. Call (808) 839-6839 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services online.