What temperature should refrigerated food be stored at?

Refrigerated food should be stored at a temperature of 41°F or below to ensure food safety. This temperature range is critical for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Keeping food at or below 41°F slows down the growth of pathogens and helps maintain the quality and safety of perishable items.

The importance of this temperature guideline is emphasized in food safety regulations and practices, which are designed to protect consumers. When food is stored above this temperature, especially for extended periods, it may enter the "danger zone" (between 41°F and 135°F) where bacteria can multiply rapidly. This highlights why maintaining the correct refrigeration temperature is vital for safe food handling and practice in environments like Walmart.

In contrast, temperatures listed as 0°F and 32°F are more appropriate for freezing and maintaining certain frozen products and ice, respectively, rather than for general refrigerated items. A temperature of 50°F is also considered too warm for safe refrigeration, as it can promote bacterial growth. Thus, 41°F or below is the optimal standard for refrigerating food safely.