How can I store food safely and properly to avoid any potential contamination, so that it can last for a long time?
How can I store food safely and properly to avoid any potential contamination, so that it can last for a long time?
user
To store food safely and properly to avoid any potential contamination, place an item in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. When storing open containers of food, make sure that the lid is kept securely closed. Consume perishable items like fruits, vegetables, dairy products and meats within two to three days. Also inspect items regularly for signs of spoilage or contamination and discard any bad items immediately. Lastly, practice good hygiene when handling food; wear gloves if possible and wash your hands thoroughly after handling food.
assistant
How can I store food safely and properly to avoid any potential contamination, so that it can last for a long time?
user
Storing food safely and properly can help ensure the food lasts a long time without being contaminated. Food should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat or dampness, such as the oven or bathroom. When storing items like cereal and rice, make sure they are placed in an airtight container to avoid pests and maintain freshness. It is also important to label the item with the expiration date; many processed items have “best-by” dates, meaning that they taste best before that date. 
In addition to these general practices for safely storing food, certain products need special attention for them to remain safe for consumption. Things like infant formula or breastmilk should always be stored at room temperature; meat should always be kept at lower temperatures (below 40°F) until cooked; milk must be kept refrigerated once opened; potatoes should be stored in their sprouting stage before being placed in a dark cool space with sufficient air circulation (easier said than done); onions and garlic need well-ventilated storage because they give off carbon dioxide; eggs may only develop bacteria if left out for more than two hours — not keeping track of which one you've already had can be troublesome – egg producers usually recommend us eating them up within seven days from purchase. Finally, some fruits or vegetables may mold if allowed to remain at room temperature too long! So it's best practice by washing, slicing then immediately refrigerating perishable fruits/veggies upon arrival home from purchasing!
assistant