Warning over common fridge mistake we all make when it's hot
UK dwellers are being warned to strap in as another heatwave window looms on the horizon, with the nation set to face sweltering temperatures as early as this week.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that an amber weather warning will be in place from Tuesday (28 July) until Thursday (30 July), with some areas of Britain set to reach highs of 33 degrees.
This will be music to the ears of many, especially those planning on flexing their pitmaster muscles by cooking up a storm on charcoal or those who want to head to their local beach for a DIY barbecue.
Experts have previously revealed everything that you should eat in a heatwave, including Greek yoghurt and the viral watermelon ice cream.
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However, others have turned their attention to what you shouldn’t do when temperatures soar, including stocking up your fridge.
According to Katherine Pavling, head of product at Virtual College, filling your white goods with extra BrewDog beers and M&S picky bits could seriously impact how safe they and other items, including fruit and meat, are to consume.
This is because when items are packed too tightly on shelves, cold air cannot circulate properly, preventing some foods from staying at a safe temperature.
The expert explained to the Daily Record that when this happens, harmful bacteria can quickly multiply, increasing the risk of food poisoning.
"Hot weather increases the risk of food going off more quickly, so it is important to take extra care with storage and hygiene,” Palving cautioned.
"Perishable foods such as meat, fish, dairy and cooked leftovers should be kept refrigerated at 5°C or below, and should not be left at room temperature for long periods.
As a general rule, food should not be left out for more than two hours, or one hour in very high temperatures.”
She added: "During summer, many people stock up for barbecues, picnics and gatherings, which can easily lead to an overcrowded fridge. However, it is important not to overfill your fridge, as this can prevent cold air from circulating properly."
Instead, she recommended keeping your fridge no more than 70-80 percent full.
You should also make sure that no items are blocking air vents.
Additionally, make sure that you check that the fridge door is shut correctly and the seals are in good condition.
This can help maintain a consistent temperature throughout the fridge, the expert said.
"Bacteria multiply much faster in warm conditions, so food that might normally be safe for a short time can become unsafe more quickly during heatwaves,” Palving added.
"Taking basic steps to keep food properly chilled is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness.”
You don’t need to tell us twice!
What is the law around working in a heatwave?
Unfortunately, according to Gov.uk, there’s no legal maximum working temperature for us Brits, so you don’t have the right to stop work because it’s simply too hot.
However, it does note that the temperature in all indoor workplaces ‘must be reasonable’ while employees are on the clock.
This is because employers have a ‘duty of care’ to protect the well-being of staff under UK employment law.
When it comes to the warmer weather, this can include:
- Ensuring the temperature is at a comfortable level
- Providing clean and fresh air
If you have any concerns about the temperature of your workplace, it's advised to speak with your employer.
Ella Scott