What is the recommended temperature for a refrigerator to ensure food safety?

The recommended temperature for a refrigerator to ensure food safety is 40°F (4°C) or below. This temperature is critical for slowing the growth of bacteria, which can multiply rapidly at higher temperatures. Keeping the refrigerator at or below this threshold helps maintain the safety of perishable foods, such as dairy products, meats, and vegetables, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

At temperatures above 40°F, the risk of bacteria, including pathogens responsible for foodborne illnesses, increases. Therefore, food safety standards emphasize that refrigerators need to be set to this specific temperature to preserve the integrity of food and safeguard public health.

While other temperatures listed in the options may still be cold, they do not fall within the recommended safety range for refrigerator storage. For example, a temperature of 30°F is too close to freezing for some foods and may not be suitable for all perishable items, while 50°F poses a significant risk for bacterial growth.