How many inches off the floor should food be stored to ensure proper safety?

Food should be stored at least 6 inches off the floor to ensure proper safety. This height helps prevent contamination from the floor, where dirt, pests, and water can accumulate. By keeping food elevated, it minimizes the risk of cross-contamination and ensures better airflow, which can help maintain food quality and safety. Storing food at this height is a common best practice in food service operations, as it also allows for easier cleaning of the area underneath storage units, further promoting hygiene in food handling environments.