What is the lowest temperature food must be kept at?

The lowest temperature food must be kept at depends on the type of food and where it's being stored. Here's a breakdown:

For refrigeration:

* General rule: Most refrigerated foods should be kept at 40°F (4°C) or below.

* Specific exceptions: Some foods require a colder temperature:

* Seafood: 34°F (1°C) or below.

* Fresh meat and poultry: 37°F (3°C) or below.

* Eggs: 40°F (4°C) or below (although they can be stored at room temperature for a shorter period).

For freezing:

* General rule: Most frozen foods should be kept at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

* Exceptions:

* Ice cream: -10°F (-23°C) or below for optimal quality.

Why these temperatures?

* Bacteria growth: Most bacteria that cause foodborne illness grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C). Keeping food at or below 40°F significantly slows down this growth.

* Freezing: Freezing temperatures kill most bacteria but not all. It also prevents further growth and slows down deterioration of food.

Always refer to specific instructions:

* Food labels: Always check the labels on your food for specific storage recommendations.

* Recipe instructions: If you're storing prepared dishes, follow the instructions in the recipe.

Important note: It's crucial to use a reliable thermometer to check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer regularly to ensure they are maintaining the proper temperatures.