There are several types of foods that don't necessarily need to be refrigerated but should be kept cool for safety reasons to prevent bacterial growth and maintain their quality. These foods are often referred to as "shelf-stable" or "non-perishable" items. Some examples include:
- Dried fruits: Raisins, dried apricots, dried cranberries, etc.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, etc.
- Canned goods: Canned vegetables, canned beans, canned tuna, canned soups, etc.
- Jerky: Beef jerky, turkey jerky, etc.
- Nut butter: Peanut butter, almond butter, etc.
- Crackers and biscuits: Saltine crackers, graham crackers, digestive biscuits, etc.
- Dry pasta and rice: Spaghetti, penne, rice, etc.
- Honey: Pure honey can be stored at room temperature.
- Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, etc.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil can be kept in a cool, dark place.
It's important to note that even though these foods can be stored at room temperature, they should be protected from extreme heat or direct sunlight. Additionally, make sure the packaging of these items is intact and not damaged, as that can compromise their shelf stability.
If there's a risk of the container falling into water or encountering other adverse conditions, it's a good idea to place these items in a tightly sealed, waterproof container or bag to ensure they remain safe and dry.