Dealing with a steaming dish that needs cooling down? The age-old question arises: Should you wait for it to reach room temperature, risking bacterial growth, or rush it into the fridge, potentially affecting the appliance’s internal temperature?
Contrary to popular belief, food safety experts, including the USDA, advocate for refrigerating hot food promptly, especially when divided into smaller portions.
The misconception originates from the era of iceboxes, 19th-century predecessors to modern refrigerators. These insulated boxes relied on blocks of ice, and introducing hot food would accelerate melting.
Modern refrigerators, equipped with chemical refrigerants and evaporator fans, recover quickly. However, strategic practices enhance efficiency and safety. Let’s delve into the best methods for storing hot food in the refrigerator.
How to Safely Refrigerate Hot Food
To expedite cooling, divide dishes like lasagna into smaller portions before refrigeration. Linda Xiao for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Monica Pierini.
Experts concur that portioning food into smaller, shallower containers accelerates cooling. For instance, carve roasts like turkey or ham and divide soups and casseroles into containers no more than two inches deep. Initially, loosely cover the containers to allow steam to escape before sealing them tightly.
According to the FDA, it’s safe to refrigerate hot food immediately (within two hours, or one hour if the ambient temperature exceeds 90°F) provided there’s adequate airflow around the food. The primary drawback is the increased energy consumption required to maintain the refrigerator’s temperature.
To minimize the strain on your refrigerator, stir the food periodically and place the container in an ice water bath.
While refrigerators have advanced significantly, variations in efficiency and potential warm spots exist. Using appliance thermometers ensures optimal temperature control. The refrigerator should maintain a temperature of 40°F or lower, while the freezer should be at 0°F.
Should You Put Hot Food Directly in the Freezer?
Ideally, avoid this. Rapid freezing promotes the formation of smaller ice crystals, preserving the food’s structure during thawing, according to the USDA. This results in juicier meat and seafood, more intact fruits and vegetables, and less separation in creamy emulsions.
Prioritize chilling food destined for the freezer using an ice bath or refrigerator. When freezing liquids, leave space for expansion (one inch for pint-sized containers, 1.5 inches for quart-sized and larger). Solids require at least half an inch of clearance for proper sealing and expansion.
What are the Best Food Storage Containers?
Several options are available. Glass containers, particularly tempered glass, are recommended for their non-absorbent qualities and suitability for oven and microwave reheating. However, they tend to be heavier and more fragile. Silicone bags offer a lightweight and durable alternative but require careful cleaning to eliminate odors. Aluminum foil and freezer paper work well for irregularly shaped items.
Choosing the right food containers is crucial for safe and effective storage. Linda Xiao for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Monica Pierini.
Avoid placing hot food directly into plastic containers, which can leach harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and potentially PFAS. This risk increases as the plastic degrades. Refrain from using single-use plastics like takeout containers. Select freezer-safe containers.
Is Cooling Hot Food Outside Safe?
Yes, with precautions. Outdoor cooling can assist, but unpredictable temperatures necessitate its use as a temporary measure only. A cooler with ice packs offers a safer alternative, especially for drinks and less perishable items.
If utilizing outdoor cooling, tightly seal containers to prevent contamination, avoid direct sunlight, and ensure the temperature remains below 40°F.
Holiday Leftovers: Tips for a Crowded Fridge
Before large events, clear out your refrigerator. Many items, such as unopened pickle jars, ketchup, certain fruits, and peanut butter, don’t require refrigeration. This creates space for leftovers, ensuring efficient cooling.
By implementing these guidelines, you can safely and efficiently store hot food in the refrigerator, preserving its quality and minimizing the risk of foodborne illness.
