Keep Your Food Safe: The Cool Truth About Fridge Temperatures

Fridges are super important in every home. They keep our food fresh and stop dangerous bacteria from growing.

But did you know that some bacteria can still grow even in the cold? That's why it's really important to set your fridge to the right temperature.

Recommended Temperatures

The FDA says to keep it at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.44 degrees Celsius) or lower. The freezer should be at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.77 degrees Celsius) or colder.

Consumer Reports suggests going even lower, to 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.77 degrees Celsius).

Not All Fridges Are Created Equal

• Some have dials with numbers instead of temperature settings.
• Others have digital controls.
• A basic fridge might be better than a fancy smart one.
• Use a fridge thermometer to make sure the temperature is right.

Why 40 Degrees Fahrenheit?

It's the temperature that slows down the growth of dangerous bacteria.

• At room temperature, bacteria can double every 20 minutes.
• The range 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.44 degrees Celsius) to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) is called the "temperature danger zone" by FoodSafety.gov.
• A temperature below 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) stops the growth of most microorganisms, including Salmonella.

The Danger of Salmonella

• Causes millions of cases of foodborne illness every year in the U.S.
• Found on raw meat, poultry, seafood, milk, eggs, water, fruit, and vegetables.
• Undercooked food can also let these bacteria multiply.

Proper Food Storage

• Refrigerate or freeze foods within two hours of purchasing or cooking them.
• If it's above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32.22 degrees Celsius), do it within one hour.
• The same goes for leftovers.
• Use a heat source to keep food above 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) until it's served.

Power Outages

• If the temperature in your fridge is higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.44 degrees Celsius), you might want to throw out the food.
• Setting your fridge to a slightly lower temperature, like 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.77 degrees Celsius), might help keep your food safer.