What Is a Good Temp to Keep My Refrigerator Set At?

Refrigerated foods require constant, cold temperatures for safe storage.

Refrigerators need to be kept at temperatures that safely preserve food without damaging delicate fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Manufacturer guidelines normally list temperature recommendations, and most new refrigerators are preset with the appropriate temperature at the factory.

Recommended Temperatures

Temperatures between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit are generally suggested for residential kitchen refrigerators. Settings above 38 degrees Fahrenheit may promote the growth of mold or other bacteria that cause food to spoil while those lower than 35 degrees Fahrenheit may cause raw eggs to freeze or encourage the formation of ice crystals in vegetables, rendering them inedible.

Checking Temperature Levels

Thermometers specially designed to check interior refrigerator temperatures are available at home improvement centers, appliance outlets and hardware stores. Periodically checking various foods for freshness or ice crystals also helps determine if the temperature is correctly set.

Health Concerns

Spoilage in improperly refrigerated foods can be invisible, as many toxins do not physically manifest themselves. To avoid food poisoning, promptly discard perishable foods stored for more than two hours at temperatures above 38 degrees.

References

• Refrigeration-Repair-Tips.com: What Is the Correct Refrigerator Temperature?
• USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: Refrigeration and Food Safety