Is it harmful to health if a refrigerator has an unpleasant odor?

Under normal circumstances, unpleasant odors in a refrigerator may pose health risks and should be addressed promptly. The details are as follows:

If food is stored too long in the refrigerator, it may spoil and generate pathogens. During their growth and metabolism, these pathogens can produce foul-smelling gases such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and methylamine, leading to unpleasant odors. Additionally, common bacteria found in refrigerators include Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli, which can still grow and reproduce at low temperatures, producing unpleasant smells. Odorous substances may contain harmful chemicals or microorganisms, such as sulfides, amine compounds, and molds. These substances may trigger allergic reactions, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal discomfort, and other symptoms. Long-term exposure to such odorous environments may also lead to adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It is recommended to place naturally fragrant items like orange peels, pomelo peels, or lemon slices at various locations inside the refrigerator, which can effectively eliminate odors.

In daily life, to ensure dietary health, it is important to regularly clean the refrigerator and take measures to remove odors.