CENTER-OF-THE-PLATE COOLER STORAGE
FOOD STORAGE TIPS TO MAINTAIN CENTER-OF-THE-PLATE QUALITY AND SAFETY
SAFETY STRATEGY
- To prevent cross-contamination, product storage order must be based on the minimum internal cooking temperature of each food
- Raw and ready-to-eat items, regardless of protein source, must be kept separate at all times
- Frozen food that is being thawed in coolers must also be stored below ready-to-eat food
- All ground meats should be stored on the coldest side of the cooler. Avoid location near the door
- Store food away from walls and at least six inches (15 centimeters) off the floor
TEMPERATURE REGULATION
- Maintaining proper temperature is an important factor for maximizing quality of center-of-the-plate items
- According to the USDA, the temperature Danger Zone is where bacteria grow most rapidly between 40°F and 140°F. In this temperature range, bacteria can double in number in as little as 20 minutes
- The preferred meat, seafood and poultry storage is in a refrigerator set at less than 40°F
- Do not overload coolers and freezers, which can prevent good airflow and make units work harder to stay cold
BEST PRACTICES
- Store items immediately upon delivery and inspection
- Rotation: Use a first-in, first-out rotation
- Dietary restrictions: Consider kosher and halal diets when arranging your storage
- Separate shelves for different allergens and dietary concerns
- Where space allows, keep the food in original boxes/containers to maintain lot code and "best/use by date" information
- Keep storage areas dry and clean
- Never store chemicals near food
Visit usda.gov for additional food storage information
CENTER-OF-THE-PLATE EXCLUSIVE BRANDS
STOCK YARDS®
WORLD’S FINEST STEAKS AND CHOPS
For over 120 years, we’ve been providing chefs with expertly cut and portioned beef and pork based on rigid meat-selection criteria, precise beef aging and expert trimming. From white linen presentation to casual family dining, our procurement experts will find the best quality options – carefully selected from our extensive meat assortment – that work for your budget and pack-size needs.
HARBOR BANKS®
CATCHING QUALITY AROUND THE WORLD
Sourced from all over the world – Harbor Banks® brings a complete selection of the best wild-caught and farm-raised fish and seafood to your kitchen. Harbor Banks is committed to providing consistency, quality and integrity. This includes products that are a part of our Serve Good® program of items, which are responsibly sourced or contribute to waste reduction.
CATTLEMAN’S SELECTION®
NOT ALL MEAT IS WORTHY TO BE CALLED CATTLEMAN’S SELECTION
Delicious and cost-effective without sacrificing food safety and quality, Cattleman’s Selection® offers a full assortment of whole muscle beef cuts, ground beef and veal. So to be worthy, every cut embodies the skill and commitment of a true cattleman.
PATUXENT FARMS®
FROM FARM TO FLAVORFUL
With authentically fresh flavors, Patuxent Farms® meats are wholesomely delicious from beginning to end. You can always count on the finest quality, taking you back to the farm and fields.
