What temperature should your refrigerator be kept at?

• A. 40°F (4°C) or below.
• B. 50°F (10°C).
• C. 60°F (15°C).
• D. 70°F (21°C).

Answer: (A)

Keeping food safe in the fridge comes down to temperature control. When the fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower, most bacteria that cause foodborne illness grow very slowly, so perishable foods stay fresh longer and are less likely to cause illness. Temperatures like 50°F, 60°F, or 70°F are too warm for safe storage; in that range, bacteria can multiply quickly, especially in dairy, meat, and leftovers. To stay safe, use a fridge thermometer and keep the temperature at or below 40°F, checking regularly and avoiding frequent door openings. For reference, freezing at 0°F keeps foods preserved even longer.