Should a refrigerator be set to 0 degrees for safety?

The appropriate temperature setting for a refrigerator is generally between 35 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit (1.6 to 3.3 degrees Celsius) to ensure food safety and quality. Setting a refrigerator to 0 degrees Fahrenheit would actually be too cold for proper refrigeration and is typically the temperature for a freezer. At 0 degrees, food may freeze, which can lead to texture changes and loss of quality.

Important food safety practices involve keeping perishable items at the right temperature to inhibit bacterial growth. The temperatures in a refrigerator should be above freezing but low enough to slow down the spoiling process. This ensures that food stays fresh, safe to eat, and maintains its intended flavor and texture.