California eFoodHandlers Practice Exam

How should leftover food be stored in a refrigerator?

1. In unmarked containers

2. In airtight containers with labels

3. On the top shelf

4. In a plastic bag

The correct answer is: In airtight containers with labels

Leftover food should be stored in airtight containers with labels to ensure food safety and maintain quality. Using airtight containers helps prevent contamination from other foods and keeps the food fresh by minimizing exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage. Additionally, labeling the containers with the date and contents allows for easy identification and helps ensure that the food is consumed within a safe timeframe, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Storing food in unmarked containers can lead to confusion and increases the risk of consuming spoiled food without realizing it. Placing leftovers on the top shelf alone does not address safety; food can still be unprotected and vulnerable to cross-contamination. Lastly, while using a plastic bag can be convenient for short-term storage, it may not provide the same level of protection as airtight containers, especially if the bag isn’t sealed properly. Therefore, using airtight containers with labels is the best practice for refrigerating leftover food.