In what order should food be organized in a refrigerator?

The correct order for organizing food in a refrigerator prioritizes food safety and helps prevent cross-contamination. The choice that states to place ready-to-eat foods on the top shelf is correct because these items are the least likely to cause foodborne illness and should be kept away from raw foods that could drip and contaminate them.

Following this, placing fish next ensures that it is separated from more raw meats that might carry pathogens. Red meat is typically placed next, as it is often considered less hazardous than poultry due to its lower risk of carrying certain bacteria when properly handled. Finally, poultry, which carries a higher risk of Salmonella and Campylobacter, should be placed at the bottom to avoid any drips contaminating other foods.

This organization from top to bottom ensures that the risk of cross-contamination is minimized, promoting food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses.