Food safety guidelines for storing pâté and raw chicken

Proper food storage is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria that may not alter the smell, taste, or color of food. Perishable items should not remain at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour if temperatures exceed 32 degrees Celsius.

For opened pâté, consumers should follow specific packaging instructions, as shelf life varies by product. Some varieties must be consumed within three days. For homemade pâté, experts recommend consumption within three to four days when stored correctly in the refrigerator. It is advised to write the opening date on the packaging to avoid confusion.

When storing raw chicken, it should be placed on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator at 4 degrees Celsius or lower to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods and causing cross-contamination with pathogens like Salmonella. Using a leak-proof container or a tray with edges can further mitigate the risk of contamination.