What is the recommended temperature for maintaining refrigeration?

Maintaining refrigeration at 41°F or less is critical for food safety. This temperature slows down the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that can multiply rapidly at higher temperatures. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends this standard to ensure that perishable food items, particularly meats, dairy products, and other items that require refrigeration, remain safe for consumption.

Keeping food at or below 41°F helps to preserve its quality and safety, preventing the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria such as Salmonella, E. Coli, and Listeria, which thrive in warmer temperatures. By operating within this range, food handlers can significantly minimize health risks associated with improper food storage practices.

Other temperature options are higher than the recommended standard and do not provide the same level of protection against food spoilage and foodborne illness. Therefore, 41°F is the optimal temperature for safe refrigeration practices in food handling.