Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

How must raw chicken be stored in a refrigerator?

1. Uncovered

2. Below cooked foods

3. Above raw beef

4. Near a thermometer

The correct answer is: Below cooked foods

Raw chicken must be stored in a refrigerator below cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. This is crucial because raw chicken can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can lead to foodborne illness if they come into contact with already cooked foods that are ready to eat. By keeping raw chicken stored lower in the refrigerator, any potential drips or leaks from the chicken will not contaminate the cooked items above it. Constructing a safe storage hierarchy in the refrigerator is a fundamental aspect of food safety practices in food management. It is essential to ensure that items are arranged in a way that minimizes the risk of cross-contamination during storage, so storing raw chicken below fully cooked foods is a practical safety measure that aligns with food safety guidelines.