What is the safe refrigerator temperature for food?

The safe refrigerator temperature for food is 40°F or below. Maintaining this temperature is crucial for food safety because it helps slow down the growth of bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. At temperatures higher than 40°F, particularly between 40°F and 140°F, bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of food contamination.

Setting the refrigerator at or below 40°F ensures that perishable items, such as dairy products, meats, and vegetables, retain their quality and are safe to consume. While 35°F or below is technically safe and aids in prolonging freshness, 40°F is the standard recommendation that balances food safety with energy efficiency in most home refrigerator settings.