The refrigerator isn't helping

After my arugula went bad last week, it got me thinking about what factors led to its demise. I think the main problem was that I had simply forgotten about it. And while I realize I can't pin all the blame on my refrigerator, its design certainly didn't help me remember the arugula. It was stored in a clear container maybe on the second shelf or so. I don't remember how far back it was pushed. But most refrigerators are designed so that many of the items are somewhat hidden from view.

This is basically my view of my refrigerator if I am standing straight up. I barely see what's in the door. I can see what's in the front of the top shelf and maybe some of the bottom shelf as well, but that's about it. To see what's in the back I have to crouch down. To see what's in the drawers, I have to open them. I usually only go to the door when I am looking for something very specific. I know some modern fridges have opted for the bottom freezer, which I think works much better, but in a full fridge there are still things hidden in the back that usually get forgotten about. 

I could imagine a fridge design where the doors are clear and the shelves are only deep enough for, say, a gallon milk jug. That way, everything is visible and at hand. In a more technological sense, it would be nice for the fridge to sense when produce is starting to turn by monitoring methane off-gassing. Of course, we've all heard stories about the futuristic fridge that will email you when you need more juice, but what about notifying you of upcoming expiration dates?

Currently, I'm just trying to be more aware of the things I have that are in more danger of going bad quickly, like the spinach and lettuce. Getting stuff through the CSA is great, but it means I have to plan my meals after I get the items, instead of being able to plan ahead. Anyway, at least my refrigerator should try to lend a hand.