How should cooked food be stored to maintain safety and quality?

To maintain both safety and quality, cooked food should be stored in airtight containers and kept at appropriate temperatures. This method minimizes exposure to air, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and spoilage, and it also prevents the food from absorbing odors and moisture from the environment.

Storing food at appropriate temperatures is crucial because bacteria can grow rapidly in the temperature range between 40°F and 140°F (known as the danger zone). Keeping food in the refrigerator at 40°F or below, or in the freezer at 0°F or below, helps to inhibit bacterial growth, preserving the food's safety and extending its shelf life.

Using airtight containers prevents cross-contamination with other foods and also keeps the food fresh for a longer duration. In contrast, the other options listed would expose the food to conditions that are conducive to bacterial growth and spoilage.