SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dad-cooler-raw-bottom

In a cooler, where should raw meat and poultry go?

On the bottom, sealed, under the other food.

Start playing free

  1. On the bottom, well sealed ✔
  2. On top so you can grab it
  3. In a bag on the lid

Why: Raw juices can drip on ready-to-eat food and spread bacteria. Seal raw meat well and keep it at the bottom of the cooler. Use plenty of ice and keep the cooler out of the sun.

Huh, didn't know that: Use separate platters and utensils for raw and cooked meat at the grill.

The dad joke
My cooler is organized. The raw chicken is at the bottom, and the potato salad is on top, like a food chain.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: On the bottom, well sealed. Raw juices can drip on ready-to-eat food and spread bacteria. Seal raw meat well and keep it at the bottom of the cooler. Use plenty of ice and keep the cooler out of the sun.

  1. USDA FSIS: Grilling and Food Safety www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/grilling-and-food-safety
    Store raw meat and poultry in well-sealed packages in the bottom of the cooler underneath other food items.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Kitchen & FoodWhat internal temperature should a grilled ground beef hamburger reach?Kitchen & FoodWhat minimum internal temperature should grilled chicken and other poultry reach?Kitchen & FoodWhere should you marinate raw meat and poultry before grilling?

That's stuff everyone should know.