How to stop mold growth in refrigerator?
When a fridge being used is turned off for some time, or if there is a power failure for more than an hour, a bad odor begins to develop inside. Consequently, there are chances for developing molds inside the refrigerator if not cleaned regularly. Also, things like cheese, garlic and vegetables can cause mold growth inside the refrigerator. It is very important to take necessary steps to prevent the growth of mold inside the refrigerator as it can cause several health problems including food poisoning to the home members. Mold and bad odour inside refrigerator can also affect other foods stored inside.
Following tips help you to prevent the mold growth inside refrigerator:
Regular Cleaning : It is very important to clean the refrigerator regularly with warm water. Nowadays, cleaning solutions are sold by companies itself, which is food safe. Cleaning solutions from companies are recommended over soap solutions. Baking soda is traditionally recommended for cleaning refrigerators. While cleaning, remember to take out all racks, drawers and removable parts. After cleaning, dry all parts with a soft cloth.
Keep Dry: The interiors of refrigerators should be kept dry. Spilled over liquids like milk, curd or even water should be wiped away on time to avoid stains and mold accumulating over it. Make sure to dry the seals as well. Moisture inside the fridge will attract mold.
While Storing Fruits and Vegetables: While storing fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator ensure that it is completely dried after washing. Wet vegetables and fruits inside the refrigerator will attract molds. Fruits and vegetables should be removed from the covers which they are brought before storing in the refrigerator, as there can be moisture inside the covers which cause molds.
Regular Check: It is important to have a regular check inside the fridge to remove outdated food items and old stocks of vegetables. Clean the vegetable tray often.
Keep Air-tight: Keeping food and vegetables air tight inside the refrigerator is very important. You can store food in air tight containers and vegetables in tied covers or zip pouches. Removing air from the product and vaccum sealing it helps foods like cheese and garlic to stay fresh and free from molds.
Traditional Tip: A popular traditional tip for maintaining your refrigerator mold free is to place a cotton sock filled with baking soda in the compartments. Baking soda has got a neutralising effect
Check Seals: Checking seals of the refrigerator doors is also important. If the seal is not tight, or if the rubber seal have cracks, moisture can be built there and mold can accumulate over it.
Molds are a type of fungi affecting food that stored long or where ever there is moisture. Checking the mold growth inside the fridge is very important for the family’s health. Never try removing mold from the top layer and use the rest of the food because molds can have poisonous substances which can contaminate the entire food item and cause food poisoning.
