Over the years, boxes filled with ice have been replaced with boxes that have mechanical equipment to maintain colder temperatures to keep food cold. This lengthens food life by inhibiting bacterial growth. Refrigerator Storage Refrigerator storage is for short-term food holding to inhibit bacteria growth that occurs at room temperature. This insures food safety and quality. It may be under the counter or take vertical space from the floor almost to the ceiling.
Some units have half-size doors.
All doors are designed as self-closing and either hinged or sliding for easy access. Hinged doors can be equipped with door stops that allow easy access to the refrigerated space. Often, there are two or even three separately controlled temperature compartments for refrigerating or freezing. It can have interior display lighting, mirrored rear panels and lighted outside panels on the top for merchandising messages. It is most often used in a cafeteria or other self-serve facility.