Chicken is a popular meal due to its versatility and flavor. Its different preparation methods have turned it into a type of meat that you cannot miss at home. However, storing raw chicken incorrectly could promote the growth of bacteria that are harmful to your health, capable of causing food poisoning. The following tips can guide you in buying and keeping refrigerated chicken in good condition.
Purchase
During purchase, it is essential to check the temperature of the chicken. Ideally, it should be below five degrees Celsius. In case you buy in a local business, you should pay attention to the chicken’s appearance. If its color is pink, it is in good condition. If it has a grayish tone, even in some of its parts, it is best to buy another. Similarly, it is important that you do not accept the chicken if the meat is sticky or gives off an unusual smell.
If you smell acidic, don’t buy it. If you’re at the grocery store, leave the chicken until the end of your shopping spree to keep it fresh longer. Make sure the packaging is not leaking, otherwise it could contaminate other foods through the dripping of the juice. If possible, carry an extra airtight bag to keep it away from other products. If the trip home is too long, put the chicken in a cooler, especially in hot climates.
Storage
Once you get home, wrap the chicken in airtight packaging and store it on the bottom shelf …