As UK temperatures remain in the mid-20s this week, experts are urging households to check their fridge settings to prevent foodborne illness. An overcrowded fridge can block cold air circulation, allowing harmful bacteria to multiply, especially during warm weather when appliances work harder.
Why Overfilling Your Fridge Is Dangerous
Katherine Pavling, head of product at Virtual College, explained: "Hot weather increases the risk of food going off more quickly, so it is important to take extra care with storage and hygiene." She emphasised that perishable foods like meat, fish, dairy and cooked leftovers must be kept at 5°C or below and should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours—or one hour in very high temperatures.
"During summer, many people stock up for barbecues, picnics and gatherings, which can easily lead to an overcrowded fridge," Pavling added. "However, it is important not to overfill your fridge, as this can prevent cold air from circulating properly. As a rule of thumb, aim to keep your fridge around 70-80% full and ensure air vents are not blocked."
Additional Precautions for Hot Weather
Pavling also warned against placing hot food directly into the fridge, as this raises the internal temperature and affects other stored items. She advised checking that the fridge operates at exactly 5°C or below, with all vents clear for proper airflow.
When shopping, avoid leaving food in a hot car for extended periods. Use cool bags or ice packs to transport groceries. "Simple precautions such as using cool bags when travelling with food, for picnics or cooking, avoiding leaving shopping in warm cars, and ensuring fridges are operating at the correct temperature can significantly reduce the risk of food poisoning during hot weather," Pavling said.
"Bacteria multiply much faster in warm conditions, so food that might normally be safe for a short time can become unsafe more quickly during heatwaves. Taking basic steps to keep food properly chilled is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness."
