What temperature is ideal for a freezer to store food safely?

The ideal temperature for a freezer to store food safely is -18°C. At this temperature, food can be maintained in a frozen state, which significantly slows down the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. This freezing effect helps to preserve the quality, flavor, and nutritional value of the food while preventing spoilage.

Maintaining the freezer at -18°C ensures that perishable items remain safe to eat for extended periods. It is important to keep the freezer consistently at this temperature, as fluctuations can compromise food safety and lead to freezer burn or degradation of quality. This standard is commonly recommended by food safety authorities, as it balances safety and food quality effectively. In contrast, temperatures above -18°C can allow bacteria to grow, jeopardizing food safety.