| FOOD | SPECIAL TIPS |
| LUNCHEON MEATS | Unopened packages can be stored in the refrigerator until the date stamped on the package. After opening, these products should be eaten within 3-5 days.
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| MILK | Fresh milk should always be stored in the refrigerator. Use within one week of the date stamped on the container.
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| EGGS | Do not store eggs in the door of the refrigerator. The temperature there is not cold enough to keep the eggs at a safe temperature. Be sure to check the date stamped on the egg package and follow it rigorously. Be very careful to follow the use-by dates stamped on pasteurized eggs and egg products.
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| NATURAL CHEESES | Natural cheeses should be tightly wrapped and refrigerated. For best taste and texture, remove cheese from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving.
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| FRESH MEATS | Fresh meats must be refrigerated immediately when brought home from the store. Wrap the package in additional plastic wrap or place in plastic bag. Make sure you don't place raw meats above any foods that will be eaten uncooked, to prevent juices from the meats from dripping on other foods. Fresh whole meat should be used within 3-5 days. Fresh ground meat should be used within 1-2 days.
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| BACON, SAUSAGE | Refrigerate the unopened package, as well as after the package is opened. The newer forms of shelf-stable bacon can be stored in the pantry before opening. Read the label carefully.
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| CANNED HAM | Most canned meats can be stored in the pantry, except for canned ham. Store canned ham in the refrigerator. If unopened, it can be stored for up to 2 weeks, or by the date stamped on the package.
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| MARINATING FOODS | Always, when marinating foods, store in the refrigerator during the recommended marinating time.
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| DEFROSTING FOODS | Always defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator. Never defrost at room temperature or in warm water.
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| FRUITS | Wrap well. Don't wash fresh fruits before storing them in the refrigerator because they will soften and lose quality. Wash them just before eating. Don't store tomatoes or bananas in the fridge.
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| BAKED PRODUCTS CONTAINING CREAM OR CUSTARD FILLINGS | These products include cakes, pies, breads, coffee cakes, and cookies. Wrap well and store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before serving for best taste and texture.
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| VEGETABLES | Vegetables should be stored in the refrigerator, except for potatoes and onions. Wrap well and use within 3-5 days.
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| DOUGHS | Any dough product should be stored in the refrigerator. Keep tube doughs in the fridge until just before using; otherwise they will soften too much and be difficult to work with.
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| BUTTER | Refrigerate in original packaging. Soften at room temperature, by grating on a cheese grater, or in microwave (on high for 5-8 seconds; repeat until softened).
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| FISH & SHELLFISH | Fish and shellfish are extremely perishable and should really be used the same day they are purchased. Store in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
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| COOKED ENTREES | Leftover cooked entrees should be placed in the refrigerator as soon as you are done serving. Divide into smaller containers for fast and safe cooling and easier reheating. Cover well.
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| TAKE OUT FOODS | Any leftover take out or delivered food product should be placed in the refrigerator as soon as you're done eating. Cover tightly and label with the date purchased. Eat within 1-2 days.
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| PIZZA | Ah - cold pizza for breakfast! Refrigerate any leftovers immediately, well covered. Eat within 1-2 days.
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| LEAFY GREENS | Leafy greens should be stored in plastic bags in the fridge. To save time, when you get home from the store you can wash greens, dry them, and wrap them in paper towel and place in a plastic bag to use within 1-2 days.
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