Transcript:
Welcome back to the final video from Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine. In this video, we’ll be covering how to store food safely. This includes dry food storage and cold food storage. General guidelines always store food in areas and containers meant for food and food storage. For dry products, it is important that the food is in a cool, dry location to protect it from freezing regularly, check for signs of pests or insects, and clean storage areas. Frequently, a dehumidifier should be used in storage locations. If there is a musty smell or condensation. Always rotate. Inventory first, expired first out, and never store food at a residential location. All storage locations must be pre-approved and monitored by Good Shepherd Food Bank prior to food being stored at that location. Letting food stay too long in the temperature danger zone increases the growth of pathogens that, in turn, creates unsafe food, like with dry storage. Cold storage items must be regularly rotated and first expired. First-out inventory systems should be used if you’re transporting cold or frozen items. Use coolers and or thermal blankets to ensure the product stays below the danger zone. Temperatures never store any products in residential locations. And remember, all storage locations must be pre-approved and monitored by Good Shepherd Food Bank prior to food being stored.

(03:25)
In addition to this food safety training, be sure to meet all local, state, and federal health and safety requirements regarding the safe and proper handling of donated products and food. Thank you for watching all four videos in Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine’s Food Safety Training course. You will now take a knowledge assessment quiz and must get a score of 70% or above in order to receive your certificate of completion. This certificate will be emailed to you using the email address you entered on the assessment. On behalf of all of us here at Good Shepherd Food Bank and our neighbors facing hunger throughout the state, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and commitment to providing the safest food possible. Thank you.