General wellnessHome remedies

How can I tell if the food in my refrigerator or freezer is safe to eat?

Jan, 20260:34 watch
LearnPlant-based eatingHow can I tell if the food in my refrigerator or freezer is safe to eat?

How can I tell if the food in my refrigerator or freezer is safe to eat?

00:00
-00:00

The best way to tell if food in your fridge or freezer is safe to eat is to rely on COT: color, odor and texture. Watch registered dietician Frances Largeman-Roth explain why these factors are good indicators of whether or not your food is spoiled.

Up next

How can I tell if the food in my refrigerator or freezer is safe to eat?
0:34 - NOW PLAYING

How can I tell if the food in my refrigerator or freezer is safe to eat?

Jan 14, 2026

How long can I store frozen foods?
0:34

How long can I store frozen foods?

Jan 14, 2026

Does the use by date guarantee food is fresh?
0:11

Does the use by date guarantee food is fresh?

Jan 14, 2026

What is the best way to clean produce bought from the supermarket?
0:42

What is the best way to clean produce bought from the supermarket?

Nov 12, 2012

Are fruits and veggies healthier when frozen?
1:06

Are fruits and veggies healthier when frozen?

Jun 28, 2021

What are good sources of antioxidants?
1:30

What are good sources of antioxidants?

Oct 29, 2012

How can I eat healthier pizza?
0:33

How can I eat healthier pizza?

Oct 31, 2012

3 ways to eat healthy on a budget
1:30

3 ways to eat healthy on a budget

Nov 12, 2012

Why shouldn't I go to the grocery store hungry?
0:30

Why shouldn't I go to the grocery store hungry?

Nov 12, 2012

The truth behind the 5-second food rule
0:36

The truth behind the 5-second food rule

Mar 23, 2016

3 tips for keeping fruits and vegetables fresh
1:35

3 tips for keeping fruits and vegetables fresh

Dec 5, 2022

Recommended for you

Infectious diseases
Is your kitchen making you sick? How to prevent food poisoning
Slideshow
How to store and when to toss 5 pantry staples
Slideshow
5 simple ways to soothe foot pain
Article
Top reasons to track your fitness
Article
Top 9 ways to be an even better parent
Article
AskMDHow can I be more consistent?
AskMd LogoAskMd Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.