Ready-to-eat foods must be stored how in relation to raw foods?

Ready-to-eat foods must be stored above raw foods to prevent cross-contamination. Cross-contamination occurs when raw foods, which may contain harmful pathogens, come into contact with foods that are already prepared for consumption. Storing ready-to-eat foods above raw foods minimizes the risk of juices from raw meats, seafood, or vegetables dripping onto items that are ready to be served, thereby protecting the safety and health of consumers.

In a food storage context, following this guideline helps maintain hygiene and food safety standards, ensuring that food handlers can serve safe meals. This practice is standard in food safety protocols to prevent foodborne illnesses. Other storage placements would introduce risks that could compromise the safety of ready-to-eat items.