Food safety
Cover or seal food in the refrigerator
Refrigerate food in covered containers or sealed bags labelled with contents and date.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
Why it matters
Uncovered food can be contaminated by drips, hands, or other food and may dry out.
Wrong action
Putting leftovers, raw food, or cut fruit into the fridge uncovered.
Correct action
Use clean sealed containers, separate raw and ready-to-eat food, and avoid overfilling.
What to do
- Cool hot food safely as appropriate.
- Place it in a clean covered container and mark the date.
- Arrange it in the correct raw or ready-to-eat zone.
If something happens
If anyone becomes severely ill, vomits repeatedly, has breathing difficulty, or becomes unresponsive after eating, stop serving, call 999, and keep packaging and remaining food.
Sources and review
- Centre for Food Safety — Five Keys to Food Safety guidance
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.