At what temperature should milk be stored in the refrigerator?

Milk should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 41°F or below to ensure its safety and freshness. Keeping milk at this temperature helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to foodborne illnesses.

When milk is stored above 41°F, the risk of spoilage increases, as bacteria multiply more rapidly at higher temperatures. Storing milk below this threshold helps to maintain its quality, flavor, and nutritional value by slowing down these bacterial processes.

The other temperature options provided are not suitable for milk storage. For example, temperatures at or above 41°F can lead to spoilage and a higher likelihood of food safety issues, while temperatures significantly below freezing can negatively affect the taste and texture of the milk. Hence, the recommended storage temperature of 41°F or below is critical for both safety and quality assurance.