Below are 6 food groups that experts recommend not to eat with coffee if you want to maximize the benefits of this drink. Experts recommend that no food should be stored in the refrigerator for more than 5 days, including frozen foods like meat and seafood.

1. The Mistake of Storing Food Too Long in the Refrigerator

The role of the refrigerator is to store food and prevent bacteria from growing, but it cannot eliminate bacteria completely. Storing food for too long in the fridge can deplete its nutritional value and cause bacteria to grow back, leading to the degradation of certain nutrients.

Experts suggest that food should be stored in the fridge for no more than 5 days, even for frozen foods like meat and seafood. Fruits and vegetables should be stored in the fridge for only 4 to 5 days. In addition to the duration, it’s important to maintain the right temperature in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for the fridge is under 4°C, and for the freezer, it should be below -18°C.

2. Not Covering Leftover Food

Leaving food uncovered can lead to digestive problems. Exposed food allows pests such as ants, cockroaches, and rats to contaminate it, which can spread harmful diseases to people. Moreover, uncovered food in the fridge can easily cross-contaminate with bacteria from other foods, causing serious health risks.

It’s best to store leftovers in food storage containers specifically designed for the refrigerator. Avoid using single-use plastic containers, especially for freezing.

3. Overloading the Refrigerator

Many housewives have the habit of buying large amounts of food in advance to store for the week. This is a mistake, as overcrowding the fridge will cause it to malfunction due to overloading.

A crowded fridge cannot properly circulate cold air, which affects the refrigerator’s lifespan and efficiency. Furthermore, storing too much food can cause uneven cooling, leading to spoiled food and the growth of bacteria.

4. Not Washing Fresh Meat Before Freezing

Fresh meat bought from markets can be contaminated with bacteria, as it has been handled by many people. It’s a common mistake to not wash the meat before freezing it because of concerns that washing will make the meat lose flavor.

However, it’s important to wash meat thoroughly, let it dry or pat it dry, and then store it in ziplock bags for freezing. This minimizes the risk of bacteria multiplying on the food.

5. Neglecting to Clean the Refrigerator

Many families only wipe down their refrigerator occasionally, which can be a health hazard. A dirty refrigerator can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, posing significant risks to health.

It’s essential to clean the refrigerator every two weeks and dispose of any spoiled or rotten food. This helps maintain a safe environment for food storage and prevents the growth of ha.rmful bacteria.