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From the farm gate to the supermarket, the Canadian agri-food industry works to deliver a safe food supply to consumers. However, once food is purchased, it’s the responsibility of the consumer to handle and store it safely to prevent spoilage, contamination and the development of foodborne bacteria that cause illness.

When shopping, check for "best before dates" on packages. Purchase only as much food as you can consume within the recommended period of time. Select shelf-stable items such as canned goods first. Buy refrigerated, deli and frozen foods just before checkout. Always buy food that is at the correct temperature. For example, foods from the dairy area should be cold and cooked foods like rotisserie chicken should be hot. Once you purchase food, go directly home and put cold perishables into the refrigerator or freezer. If this is not possible, store them in an iced cooler until you're able to get them home.

Bacteria multiply rapidly in what's called The Danger Zone between 4°C (40°F) and 60°C (140°F). So it's important for quality and food safety to keep refrigerated foods cold 4°C (40°F) or below. Cooked food should never be kept out of the refrigerator or oven for more than 2 hours. Cold temperatures keep food fresh and inhibit the growth of most bacteria. However, even when stored at the proper temperature, food spoilage microorganisms can still grow and multiply slowly. So there is a limit to the length of time food will taste fresh and be safe to eat. It's a good idea to label containers with the date purchased or cooked.

Be sure your food storage area, refrigerator and freezer are clean.

Once opened, store food in foil, plastic wrap, leak proof plastic bags or airtight containers to keep it from drying out or being contaminated.

Unfortunately, harmful bacteria and other contaminants that cause most cases
of foodborne illness cannot be seen, smelled or tasted.

Remember, when in doubt, throw it out!

The storage times in the following charts are from the date of purchase and apply only when the food has been handled correctly.