We keep food in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and keep it safe.
Cold temperatures keep food fresh and inhibit the growth of most bacteria.
However, food spoilage microorganisms can still grow and multiply slowly over time, so there is a limit to the length of time various foods will stay fresh in the refrigerator. Eventually food will begin to look or smell bad and should be thrown out. Use the following temperature and storage tips to help keep perishable food safe. Temperature Set the refrigerator to maintain a temperature of 40 F or below. Keep a refrigerator thermometer in the unit or check the temperature periodically.