Where should raw poultry be stored in a refrigerator?

Raw poultry should be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. This practice is essential for food safety as it helps prevent cross-contamination. When raw poultry is placed on a higher shelf, there is a risk that juices from the poultry could drip onto other foods, particularly ready-to-eat items, potentially causing foodborne illnesses. Storing raw poultry on the bottom shelf minimizes this risk by containing any potential drips, keeping the juices from contaminating other foods stored above. This positioning aligns with food safety guidelines which emphasize proper storage practices to ensure that food remains safe to consume.