How the ‘Fridgescaping’ Trend Can Increase Your Risk of Food-Borne Illnesses

• “Fridgescaping” is a new trend that has become popular on social media platforms like TikTok.
• It involves creating a theme in your fridge with decorative objects, flowers, and lights.
• Health experts say it could increase health risks if you aren’t careful.
• It can put you at risk for exposure to harmful microorganisms or chemicals.
• However, if safety is kept in mind, it can be helpful in keeping your fridge clean and tidy.

“ Fridgescaping ” is the latest trend taking over TikTok and it has fans of the romantic period drama “Bridgerton” decking out their refrigerators with decor reminiscent of the series, such as ornate china, picture frames, mirrors, and figurines.

Cut flowers and herbs, elaborate displays of fruits and vegetables, and strings of lights accentuate the look.

Fans of fridgescaping often refer to the trend as “Fridgerton,” but it’s not limited to the historical TV series. Other themes include a Mexican edition , an enchanted forest , and Halloween .

However, as much joy as fridgescaping is bringing to happy fridge owners everywhere, health experts say the practice could come with certain risks.

How fridgescaping can increase health risks

Dr. Maria Knobel , the Medical Director of Medical Cert UK , says the main problem is the risk of contamination.

“When you place decorative elements inside your fridge, especially if they are not food-safe or are difficult to clean, you could inadvertently introduce contaminants,” she explained. “For example, decorative items might harbor bacteria or mold, which can then come into contact with food items,” said Knobel

Contamination is a problem because it increases your risk for foodborne illnesses . It also increases the risk that foods will spoil.

Another potential concern is temperature regulation.

“Fridgescaping might involve placing non-food items in the refrigerator, which can disrupt air circulation,” said Knobel.

Without proper air circulation, your refrigerator may not be able to maintain temperatures that prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, allowing disease-causing organisms like Salmonella and E. coli to flourish.

Knobel additionally pointed out the potential for chemical exposure.

“Some decorative items may be made from materials that are not intended for use in food storage environments,” she explained. “If these items degrade or release chemicals, there is a risk of these substances coming into contact with your food.”

This could be especially risky for pregnant people and children, Knobel added.

Fridgescaping can have health benefits, too — if you don’t overdo it

Varsha Khatri , RDN, with Prowise Healthcare , noted, however, that arranging your refrigerator to have a more aesthetic appearance can have certain benefits, provided you don’t go too far.

One potential benefit is the reduction of food waste , she said, stating that “fridgescaping catches people’s attention by arranging and presenting food appealingly.”

She said this emphasis on visibility can help people be more purposeful in their food consumption, leading to less waste.

It can also make meal prep easier, according to Khatri

“With an orderly fridge, cooking does not need to be a strenuous task as the various ingredients required for cooking can easily be retrieved,” she said. “This can open avenues of culinary innovation as people will tend to use the food products they see as they make their meals.”

Finally, Khatri spoke about how fridgescaping can help people keep their fridges organized and clean.

“This not only promotes the safety of food but also helps one adopt the practice of regular upkeep to make sure the refrigerator is clean and organized over a period of time,” she explained.

“In as much as the risks are acknowledged, the advantages may be fully enjoyed of having a relatively arranged fridge which benefits health and creates wonderful dishes,” said Khatri.

Takeaway

Fridgescaping is the latest trend to take over on TikTok. It consists of decorating your refrigerator in appealing and often romantic ways using decorative objects and appealing displays of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

If overdone, it can create a risk for contamination and foodborne illness. It can also make it more difficult for your refrigerator to do its job of keeping your food cool and safe. There is also a risk of chemical contamination when you place foods in containers that are not designed to be food-safe.

On the other hand, if you keep safety in mind and don’t go too far, fridgescaping could help you be more aware of not wasting food and also help you put together your meals more easily. It can also help keep your fridge clean and more organized.