The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35-38°F (1.6-3.3°C) according to most experts. This temperature range ensures food safety by giving a 2-5 degree buffer in case the temperature gauge isnt wholly accurate. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also recommends keeping the refrigerator temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. Consumer Reports tests find that a fridge temperature of 37° F will keep fresh food good for as long as possible, with no ice crystals on lettuce or bacteria breeding in raw meats. Its important to note that if the temperature is cooler, items like milk and meat last a bit longer, but if its close to freezing, some items start showing frost on them. Therefore, its best to stay within the recommended temperature range to prevent fresh food from spoiling too quickly and to slow the growth of bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.