Storage

Canadian provincial food codes require food, packaging and single-use items to be stored off the floor, and inspectors generally expect at least 15 cm (6 in) of clearance so floors can be cleaned and pests are not hidden. Use shelving or dollies, keep a small gap from walls, and store chemicals below and separate from food. Store raw protein below ready-to-eat food in coolers so drips cannot contaminate it.

Refrigerated food should be held at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, and frozen food at -18 °C (0 °F) or colder. Check and log thermometer readings at least twice a day. Leave space between containers so cold air can circulate, and do not overload walk-ins. Cool hot food in shallow containers before covering and storing, so it moves through the danger zone, 4 to 60 °C, quickly.

First in, first out means using the oldest stock first so nothing expires on the shelf. When deliveries arrive, put new product behind or below the existing stock, and label every opened or prepared item with its contents and date. Clear, stackable containers and date labels make FIFO easier to follow. Rotating stock this way reduces waste and is something health inspectors look for.

A standard bus tub measures about 20 x 15 inches (51 x 38 cm) and is 5 to 7 inches deep, sized to fit bus carts and dish-machine areas. Deeper 7 inch tubs hold more dishes and suit busy dining rooms; covers turn them into storage or transport bins. Use different colours to separate dirty dishes, cutlery and food waste, and choose polypropylene tubs, which resist cracking and are dishwasher safe.

Rubbermaid Commercial BRUTE containers and totes are NSF-listed for food contact, which is why they are widely used to store bulk flour, sugar, rice and ice. Use a lid to keep food covered, label the contents and date, and keep totes on dollies or shelving rather than directly on the floor. Wash and sanitize containers between batches of food.

Shipping is calculated live at checkout from real carrier rates. Free shipping on orders over $199. Orders are processed in 2 to 3 business days (cut-off 10:00 AM MST, Monday to Friday) and Canadian transit takes 2 to 6 business days. We also ship to the United States, with duties and taxes shown at checkout. See the Shipping page for full details.