Why should ready-to-eat foods be stored above raw foods?

Ready-to-eat foods should be stored above raw foods primarily to prevent cross-contamination. When raw foods, especially those containing pathogens, are stored above ready-to-eat items, there is a risk that juices or contaminants from the raw foods can drip onto the ready-to-eat items. This can lead to foodborne illnesses, as pathogens can transfer to foods that do not typically undergo further cooking. By keeping ready-to-eat foods above raw foods, you create a safer environment that helps maintain the integrity and safety of foods that are intended to be consumed without further cooking.

While enhancing flavors, keeping raw foods frozen, or saving space in the refrigerator may have some relevance in food preparation and storage, they do not directly address the critical safety concern of preventing the transfer of harmful microorganisms from raw to ready-to-eat foods. Therefore, prioritizing safety through proper storage practices is the most effective approach.