At what temperature must freezers be maintained?

Maintaining freezers at 0 degrees Fahrenheit is critical for ensuring food safety and preserving the quality of frozen foods. This temperature effectively halts the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, which can contribute to foodborne illnesses. Furthermore, keeping a freezer at this temperature helps maintain the texture, flavor, and nutritional value of food items for an extended period.

Temperatures above 0 degrees Fahrenheit can lead to partial thawing and refreezing of foods, which compromises their safety and quality. For instance, ice crystals may form, affecting the texture of the food upon thawing.

Setting the temperature lower than 0 degrees Fahrenheit, such as -10 degrees, is generally acceptable for some commercial applications, but it is not the standard guideline for home and regular freezers. Thus, the consensus in food safety guidelines is that a freezer should be maintained at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal performance.