What is the standard freezer temperature used for safe food storage?

• A. -10°C
• B. -25°C
• C. 0°C
• D. -18°C

Answer: (D)

Freezing at -18°C is chosen because it reliably slows or stops microbial growth and slows spoilage reactions, helping foods stay safe and retain quality during long-term storage. This temperature is the widely accepted standard in HACCP and food safety guidelines, and it provides a practical margin against typical temperature fluctuations in freezers. Other temperatures don’t fit the standard: -10°C is not cold enough to prevent gradual microbial activity over time; 0°C is not freezing and allows microorganisms to remain active; -25°C is colder and used in specific cases or ultra-low freezers, but the common standard reference for safe storage is -18°C.