Leaving food out to cool can put you in the danger zone.
Is it safe to put warm food directly into the refrigerator?
The short answer is: it depends.
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Baker says no and so does the United States Department of Agriculture.
Cover foods to retain moisture and prevent them from picking up odors from other foods.
Should You Let Food Cool Before Refrigerating?
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Hot foods can be placed in the refrigerator, notes Baker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Food should be put into the refrigerator within two hours to avoid bacteria growth.
Food can sit on the counter for no more than two hours.
