FDA guidelines on refrigeration and freezing

FDA recommends keeping the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Appliance thermometers provide the most reliable way to know whether these temperatures are being maintained.

Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods promptly. Foods requiring refrigeration should not remain at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour when the air temperature is above 90°F (32°C).

Food held continuously frozen at 0°F remains safe, although its flavor, texture, color and other quality characteristics may deteriorate with time. Freezer burn is a quality issue rather than a safety issue.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

Are You Storing Food Safely? — FDA

FDA’s consumer guidance on refrigerator and freezer temperatures, storage and power interruptions.

Freezing and Food Safety — USDA FSIS

Additional federal guidance on safe freezing and freezer storage.

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