Ground fish and meat should be stored above other foods like whole cuts of beef or pork. Ground meats must be properly packaged to prevent pathogens escaping. The packaging should be tightly sealed and free from leaks. Ground meats and fish should also be kept away from dust and other contaminants.
Ice chest
When storing fish, an ice chest can be extremely useful. It keeps the fish fresh for a long time, and it also lets you easily clean your fish. It is hard-sided and insulated so your fish will not freeze. This means that your fish will stay soft and pliable when you take them out of the ice.
The ideal size for an ice chest is 25 quarts. This is a good size for most situations. Some ice chests come with additional compartments to hold drinks or other random items. You can also purchase a smaller model, such as the Kenai 25 cooler for fishing trips, depending on your needs.
Refrigerator
Ground fish is an important ingredient in many meals. However, it should be kept in a refrigerator to prolong its shelf life. Fish can be spoilt by bacterial action, fat changes, or dehydration. Fish can be preserved at a lower temperature to slow down spoilage and improve its quality. The FAO Code of Practice for Frozen Fish lists recommended storage temperatures for fish.
Raw fish should be stored in a separate compartment, below other ingredients and ready-to-eat foods. Because raw fish can cross-contaminate other foods, liquids should be kept separate. Additionally, the original packaging may not be air-tight so make sure you use airtight containers.
If you do not have a refrigerator, you can use an ice chest instead. Fill the ice chest with crushed ice or a block of ice, which will keep the fish at the right temperature for longer. To further reduce the temperature and extend the shelf life of the ice chest, you can also add salt to it.
Remember to use meat, poultry, or fish within a few days, if not weeks. Uncooked meat should not be stored for more than two days as this could cause bacterial growth. However, if you have a meal that will be consumed within two days, you can keep the leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days and use them later.
It is important to keep your refrigerator clean. A clean refrigerator can prevent bacteria from developing. Hot, soapy water can be used to clean your refrigerator once every three months. You can also use a solution of diluted bleach to kill bacteria. Make sure your refrigerator is regularly maintained by a refrigerator repair company.
To prevent bacteria growth, fish should be kept at 40°F to 4°C. Raw meat should be stored in a sealed container with a plate underneath to prevent juices from escaping. Raw meat should be stored near the bottom of your refrigerator, as this is where it will stay the coldest.
Frozen and raw fish should be handled with caution. Raw fish can quickly spoil and is delicate. The bacteria in fish can also contaminate other food items in the fridge. This is why refrigeration is so important when storing fish. It preserves the flavors and prevents odor.
