The ideal temperature for a fridge should be between approximately 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 5°C) to keep food fresh and safe. Most experts recommend setting your fridge around 37°F (3°C) as a good balance to prevent bacterial growth while avoiding freezing your food

. Key points on fridge temperature:

• The US FDA and Food Standards Agency suggest keeping the fridge at or below 40°F (4°C to 5°C) to inhibit harmful bacteria growth

• Temperatures below 34°F (1°C) risk freezing some foods, which is usually undesirable

• Temperatures above 40°F (4.4°C) enter the "danger zone" where bacteria multiply quickly, increasing food spoilage and health risks

• For optimal food preservation, 35°F to 38°F (1.6°C to 3.3°C) is often recommended, providing a buffer against temperature fluctuations

• Different fridge areas may vary slightly: lower shelves can be colder (0°C to 2°C) for meats, while door compartments are slightly warmer (5°C to 7°C)

It is advisable to use a fridge thermometer to monitor the actual temperature, as built-in thermostats can be inaccurate. Also, allow about 24 hours after adjusting settings for the temperature to stabilize

. In summary, setting your fridge temperature around 37°F (3°C) ensures food safety and freshness without risking freezing or bacterial growth.