Zero-Waste: Food Preservation Basics Everyone Should Know

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Refrigerator zones

The coldest zone (+2°C to +4°C): As a general rule, the coldest area* in the refrigerator is closest to the evaporator, either in the upper area for traditional refrigerators or in the lower area for double door fridge freezer combos. 

What to store there: The most perishable foods should be stored in the coldest zone of the refrigerator. This includes:

• any type of raw meat (beef, pork, lamb), poultry, fish and seafood
• prepared meals

*Check your appliance’s user guide for the most accurate information on which zones are the coldest. You can also measure the temperature of each zone directly, by setting a refrigerator thermometer in all areas of the fridge over the course of a few days. The thermometer must be left in there for several hours each time, to ensure the most accurate reading. Then you can map out the different zones and indicate the temperature for each.