Different Types of Food You Can Store in a Cold Storage

Cold room storage is a vital requirement in the food, catering and hospitality industries. And what’s great about mobile refrigeration is that it’s suitable for pretty much all foodstuffs, enabling you to comply with the law on food safety by keeping all food products fresh. It also saves your company money through minimising wastage; food produce that has been kept at too high a temperature for too long has to be thrown away.

So, wondering what to store in fridge trailers? Let’s take a look.

Correct temperatures for food storage

Different food products have to be stored at different temperatures; here are some guidelines:

Meat

Meat that is fresh and vacuum packed should ideally be stored at -2 degrees Celcius to ensure it complies with food safety standards; correct storage temperatures will also make meat products last longer.

Meat that needs to be matured for several days should be stored at a lower temperature of -5 degrees Celsius.

Frozen meat should always be kept in a freezer at -18 degrees Celsius or below. However, frozen meat needs to be thawed safely in a controlled way before it can be used; cold room storage can be the perfect environment in which to do this.

Fish

From succulent shrimp to flaky fish fillets, seafood is a delicacy that requires proper storage to maintain its freshness and flavour. Cold storage is perfect for keeping your seafood at the optimal temperature, preventing spoilage and ensuring that you can enjoy the catch of the day whenever you please.

However, UK laws relating to fish storage are quite stringent as fish can cultivate bacteria very quickly. Fish should be stored at a temperature of -2 degrees Celsius, and should be kept separate from all other foodstuffs with its own dedicated space. Fish needs to be placed in cold room storage immediately upon delivery to avoid it having time to warm up after being transported on ice.

Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, yoghurt, and other dairy products are staples in many households, but they can quickly spoil if not stored properly. Cold storage is a must for keeping your dairy items fresh and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. So, whether you're a cheese connoisseur or simply enjoy a glass of cold milk with your cookies, make sure to keep them chilled in your cold storage.

Bakery and Pastry Items

If you're a bakery owner or simply have a sweet tooth, you'll be delighted to know that cold storage is perfect for keeping your cakes, pastries, and other baked goods fresh and delicious. By storing these items at the right temperature, you can prevent them from going stale or developing mould, ensuring that every bite is as tasty as the first.

Fruit and Vegetables

Some fruit and vegetables need to be stored at different temperatures than others. Most produce grown in the UK or similar cool climates should ideally be stored between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius to make them last as long as possible.

However, some varieties, particularly those native to the Mediterranean and other warmer climates, can be damaged by being stored at temperatures this low. These include aubergine, avocado, cucumber, grapefruit, melon and peppers, although this is not an exhaustive list. These products require a storage temperature of 8 degrees Celsius or higher.

Non-Perishable Foods That Can Be Stored in Cold Storage

Beverages

From refreshing soft drinks to craft beers and fine wines, cold storage is the ideal place to keep your beverages chilled and ready to serve. Whether you're stocking up for a party or simply like to have a cold drink on hand, storing them in a cold environment will ensure they're always at the perfect temperature for enjoyment.

Condiments and Sauces

While many condiments and sauces are shelf-stable, storing them in cold storage can help preserve their flavour and extend their shelf life. From ketchup and mustard to hot sauce and salad dressings, keeping these items chilled will ensure they're always ready to add a burst of flavour to your favourite dishes.

Chocolate and Confectionery

If you're a chocolate lover, you know that storing your favourite treats in a cool, dry place is essential to prevent melting and maintain their texture. Cold storage is perfect for keeping your chocolate bars, truffles, and other confections in pristine condition, ready to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the craving strikes.

Precooked Meals and Ready-to-Eat Foods

In today's fast-paced world, precooked meals and ready-to-eat foods are a convenient option for those short on time. Cold storage is ideal for keeping these items fresh and safe to consume, whether you're storing homemade meals or store-bought options. Simply reheat and enjoy whenever hunger strikes!

Final Thoughts

With the right knowledge and equipment, storing food in cold storage can be a breeze. So long as you understand the different types of food suitable for cold storage and follow best practices for organisation and temperature control, you can ensure that your food remains fresh, safe, and delicious for longer. So, whether you're a business owner or simply a food enthusiast, investing in a quality cold storage solution is a smart choice.

If you're looking for reliable and convenient cold storage options in the UK, why not hire a mobile cold room in the UK from us at Ice Cool Trailers. With our expert guidance and top-notch equipment, you can rest assured that your food will be stored in optimal conditions, ready for you to enjoy whenever you need it.