Its above freezing but below the point of spoilage.

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I gauge the refrigerator temperature by how the milk tastes.

It should never be warm (gross), and it should certainly not have ice crystals.

Closeup of a temperature control in the refrigerator

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Obviously, there are much better ways to monitor your fridge temperature.

Keeping the refrigerator at the proper temperature is essential for both food safety and quality.

Additionally, it helps maintain freshness, texture, and flavor, preventing spoilage and waste.

A retor style kitchen with a red refrigerator

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Proper refrigeration extends food shelf life effectively.

Always use a thermometer to verify controls.

Like Goldilocks, you want to be just right.

Fresh produce and dairy, in particular, can be damaged.

There might be times, though, when you want to set your fridge temp a little colder.

Another moment for turning down the temperature gauge is when youre preparing a big meal, like at Thanksgiving.

Storing raw meats, dairy, and perishable leftovers in these areas keeps them fresh longer, Swamy says.

Avoid placing delicate produce here, as it may freeze or spoil more quickly.

The warmest spots in the fridge are all the shelves in the door and the upper locations.

They dont stay consistently cold, especially when you initiate the refrigerator.

Avoid storing dairy,eggs, or raw meat here to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses.

Do You Need a Refrigerator Thermometer?

Your refrigerators built-in thermometer might not always be accurate, mainly because of where its located.

Double-checking the temperature of your unit at home is always a good thing to do, Handal says.