The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is between 35°F and 38°F (or 1.7°C to 3.3°C) . This temperature range is close to freezing without being so cold that items in the fridge start to freeze. Keeping the temperature in this range can help prevent food from spoiling too quickly and slow the growth of bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends keeping the refrigerator temperature at or below 40°F (4.4°C) to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. Setting the temperature below 35°F (1.7°C) can cause food to freeze, while setting it above 40°F (4.4°C) can cause bacteria to multiply in the refrigerator. Therefore, it is best to set the temperature gauge a few degrees below 40°F (4.4°C) . The freezer should be set at 0°F (-17°C) .