Where should ground fish be stored in a cooler?

Ground fish should be stored below pork roasts in a cooler to prevent cross-contamination. In food safety practices, it is essential to follow the guidelines for the correct storage hierarchy based on the potential risk of contaminants. Fish tends to be more susceptible to bacteria than pork, particularly when it is ground, which increases the surface area where bacteria can thrive.

By placing ground fish below pork roasts, any potential drips or juices from the pork will not contaminate the fish. The cooler organization should prioritize more vulnerable items (like fish) being stored at lower shelves to protect them from contact with items that could carry harmful pathogens. This storage practice helps maintain food safety standards and protect consumers from foodborne illnesses.

Other storage scenarios, such as placing fish at the top shelf or next to vegetables, could lead to scenarios where contamination could occur, making it critical to adhere to proper food storage guidelines.