The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C and 3.3°C) . This temperature range is close to freezing but not so cold that food will freeze. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends keeping the refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4.4°C) or below to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. The freezer should be set at 0°F (-18°C) to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Its important to note that every refrigerator model is different, so the location of the temperature controls may vary. To set the ideal temperature of your refrigerator, refer to the owner’s manual for your refrigerator to find the temperature control panel. Adjust the thermostat to 40°F (4.4°C) or below. Once you get your fridge in the ideal temperature range, you have to keep it there. Here are some practices you can put in place to keep your fridge cold and prevent the growth of bacteria:

• Don’t overfill the fridge
• Keep the fridge door closed as much as possible
• Clean the fridge regularly
• Check the temperature regularly to ensure it stays within the ideal range

Remember that even when refrigerators have digital controls for setting precise temperatures, the settings aren’t always accurate. Consumer Reports recommends setting the refrigerator temperature to achieve optimal freshness between 36°F and 38°F (2.2°C and 3.3°C) .