Food storage hints

Travel America, March-April, 2005 by Nancy Baren Miller

The following are hints from Dometic's brochure "Refrigerating and Freezing Food on the Road:" (1) Cool the refrigerator before placing food inside by turning the unit on the day before you're ready to pack; (2) Cool hot food and drinks first before putting them in the refrigerator; (3) Don't overpack.

A full unit takes longer to lower temperatures, while an overcrowded fridge takes longer to make ice. A heavy load may cause defrosting; (4) Arrange all food to allow for free air circulation; (5) Don't place large storage containers and paper items on shelves. They block circulation and reduce the unit's efficiency; (6) To prevent frost buildup, wipe excess moisture off items placed in the freezer compartment; (7) Don't leave the unit's door open any longer than necessary; (8) Keep all food and drink containers tightly covered. For highly flavored foods like onions, garlic, and certain cheeses, use covered dishes, plastic wrap, or aluminum foil to prevent food odors in the unit and the RV.