Frozen food shall be stored at what temperature?

The correct temperature for storing frozen food is at 0°F or below. This temperature ensures that food remains safely frozen, preventing the growth of bacteria and the degradation of food quality. Maintaining freezer temperatures consistently at or below 0°F is crucial for minimizing the risk of foodborne illness and preserving the texture, flavor, and nutritional value of frozen items. Proper freezing practices are essential in a nursing home setting to ensure the health and safety of residents, as well as to comply with regulatory standards concerning food storage and handling.

Choosing a higher temperature, such as 10°F, or any above would not adequately prevent food from thawing, which can lead to spoilage. Additionally, storing food at temperatures warmer than 0°F poses a risk for the growth of harmful pathogens when the food's internal temperature rises above freezing. Storing frozen food at temperatures lower, such as -10°F, while effective for preservation, is not necessary for maintaining the integrity of most frozen foods and may lead to energy inefficiencies in the freezing process.