Which of the following is the best practice for storing covered raw meat to prevent microbial contamination?

• A. Store it at room temperature in a sealed container.
• B. Store it above ready-to-eat foods in the refrigerator.
• C. Store it in the freezer without any covering.
• D. Store it on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator to prevent drips onto other foods.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that raw meat can harbor harmful microbes that may contaminate other foods if not stored properly.
2. Recognize that storing raw meat at room temperature encourages microbial growth, which is unsafe.
3. Know that storing raw meat above ready-to-eat foods in the refrigerator risks drips contaminating those foods.
4. Learn that storing raw meat uncovered in the freezer can lead to freezer burn and cross-contamination.
5. Conclude that the best practice is to store raw meat on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator, covered, to prevent drips and cross-contamination with other foods.