Feature Articles
Refrigerator Temperatures are Important for Food Safety
Tammy Roberts, MS, RD, LD, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist in Barton County University of Missouri Extension
During the summer months, food safety experts spend a significant amount of time warning people about the dangers of leaving food at room temperature and the importance of keeping food cold at outdoor picnics. One thing sometimes overlooked is the importance of assuring the refrigerator is at the proper temperature to assure food safety.
A refrigerator should maintain temperatures at or below
40 degrees Fahrenheit. The danger zone in which
illness-causing bacteria can grow and multiply is 40
degrees to 140 degrees. The closer temperatures are to
the middle of that range, the faster bacteria grow and
multiply. Keep in mind that bacteria can still multiply
at 40 degrees, it is just at a very slow rate. That is
one reason why it is recommended that you use or throw
out leftover food within four days of preparation. Raw
poultry and ground meat should be used within one or two
days.
The best way to assure your refrigerator is at or below
40 degrees is by using a refrigerator or appliance
thermometer. Colorado State Cooperative Extension
describes this method for initially checking the
temperature in your refrigerator:
- Place your appliance thermometer (which can be purchased at hardware and some grocery stores) in a glass of water in the middle of the refrigerator and wait five to eight hours
- If the temperature is not 38-40 degrees after
5-8 hours, adjust the temperature control and then
check again
After the refrigerator temperature has been adjusted, the thermometer can be removed from the water and stored on the rack in the middle of the refrigerator.
A clean refrigerator works more efficiently than a dirty one. Drips and spills should be cleaned immediately. Surfaces should be cleaned with hot, soapy water and then rinsed. Abrasive cleansers are not recommended for refrigerators as they can harm the finish. The front grill of the refrigerator should be kept free from dust. This allows air to flow freely to the condenser. The condenser should be cleaned with a brush or vacuum cleaner several times a year. This allows for better efficiency of your appliance.
With your clean refrigerator promptly set at 40 degrees
or below, you are assuring the safety of food for your
family. Energy conservation is an added benefit of
keeping the parts clean.
Last Updated 10/25/2007
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