What should be the storage order in the refrigerator for safety?

The correct storage order in the refrigerator prioritizes food safety to prevent cross-contamination. Placing ready-to-eat foods above raw foods is essential because if juices from raw foods, such as meats or poultry, were to drip down onto ready-to-eat items, it could lead to contamination with harmful bacteria. Ready-to-eat foods are already prepared and will not undergo further cooking, making it crucial to keep them free from potential contaminants that could cause foodborne illness.

This storage order helps ensure that food remains safe for consumption, as it minimizes the risk of raw food contaminants reaching those items that are meant to be consumed without further cooking.