Experts warn that taking other trips before heading home from the supermarket may expose chilled and frozen food to unsafe temperatures, increasing the risk of spoilage and foodborne bacteria. Other common habits—such as unpacking non-perishable items before chilled ones or leaving groceries in the car—can also raise food temperature and reduce freshness. Mr Trustain also recommends packing chilled and frozen groceries together, ideally in insulated bags, to help maintain a safe temperature during the journey home. He said: "People often unpack cupboards first because it's easier, but chilled food should always be your priority." He stressed that in warm weather, chilled food starts to warm up even more quickly.