How to Store Raw Chicken Safely in the Zaxby's Kitchen

Keeping it Safe: Storing Raw Chicken in the Zaxby’s Kitchen

When it comes to keeping raw chicken safe in a Zaxby’s kitchen, you might think it’s all pretty straightforward. But really, there’s a science—and a lot of rules—to ensure those delectable chicken sandwiches hit the table without a hitch. So, how should raw chicken be stored? Let’s break it down together.

The Right Answer: Sealed and on the Bottom Shelf

Is there any other way? The correct method is to store raw chicken in a sealed container on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. But why is this so crucial?

Cross-contamination risk: You’ve likely heard the phrase "don’t put your eggs in one basket," but in this case, it’s more like—don't let your chicken juices mix with other foods! By placing raw chicken in a sealed container, you avoid the nasty chance of those juices dripping onto something meant for eating without further cooking. It’s all about keeping interaction minimal to maintain a safe environment.

Why the Bottom Shelf?

Here’s the thing: in food safety guidelines, there’s a clear directive—raw proteins (think chicken, beef, seafood) should always hang out below ready-to-eat items (like salads and cooked meats).

If you're wondering why it matters, consider this: imagine a busy Saturday at Zaxby’s, orders flying in, and someone opens the fridge with a glance at the beautiful raw chicken waiting for its fate. If it’s sitting at eye level, right next to those crispy tenders, it can lead to a pretty messy—literally—situation. Protecting the integrity of your chicken by storing it appropriately is part of keeping the entire kitchen efficient.

The Quality Factor

Now, storage isn’t just about safety; it’s also about quality. When you seal raw chicken in a container, you enhance its shelf life by preventing air exposure. This helps keep the chicken fresher for longer, which ultimately benefits your customers—and let’s be honest, nobody wants to serve guests anything but the best, right?

Cleanliness is Key

And while we’re talking about storage, let’s highlight cleanliness in the kitchen. Do you know what else helps? Keeping that refrigerator organized and clean. Regularly checking your storage practices, along with ensuring that containers are sanitized, goes a long way in maintaining food safety standards. Everyone steps in—a busy restaurant means every second counts, and spotting a potential issue early can save time and prevent something from turning sour, literally.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it! The next time you find yourself organizing your Zaxby's kitchen, remember that raw chicken deserves a sealed container on the bottom shelf. By following this straightforward yet essential rule, you're not only upholding safe food-handling practices but also contributing to the overall success of your kitchen operation. It’s a small step that plays a huge role in keeping that chicken crispy and safe for all your hungry customers.

Need More Help?

Looking for more tips on food safety in the kitchen? You know what? There are endless resources out there. Whether it’s through Zaxby’s own guidelines or food safety courses online, always stay curious and informed. After all, a well-stocked kitchen is the backbone of a successful restaurant!