Here's Why You Need to Clean Out Your Refrigerator Today

November 15th has been set aside as the day we observe National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day! Mold, old food, bacteria and stink are all reasons that you should clean and organize the "fridge" on a regular basis.

If you haven't checked the dates in the food in your refrigerator lately or if there are take out left overs or doggie bags, it's time for a cleaning.

The USDA says:...bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes thrive at cold temperatures, and if present, will multiply in the refrigerator over time and could cause illness.)

I found this video from Southern Living that may offer some assistance when starting your clean-out.

According to the USDA, there is a safe temperature that food should be stored at.

For safety, it is important to verify the temperature of the refrigerator.

Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or below.

Some refrigerators have built-in thermometers to measure their internal

temperature. For those refrigerators without this feature, keep an

appliance thermometer in the refrigerator to monitor the temperature.

This can be critical in the event of a power outage. When the power goes

back on, if the refrigerator is still 40 °F, the food is safe. Foods held at

temperatures above 40 °F for more than 2 hours should not be

consumed. Appliance thermometers are specifically designed to provide

accuracy at cold temperatures. Be sure refrigerator/freezer doors are