Expert: Carol Schlitt - 4/13/2006

Question
What is the safe range for frezzing foods in a school. I have a newer unit that keeps the food at around -22f . Is that too cold.

Answer
Hi John,

-22 degrees F is very, very cold -- much colder than most freezers are capable.  The FDA food code and most, if not all state food codes, state that food must be held in a freezer at 0 degrees or below. When I was in school food service we aimed for -5 degrees.

I'm not aware of any problem of keeping food at a colder temperature other than the problem for the people going in and out of the freezer (if it is a walkin).  You might talk with the sales rep from whom you purchased the unit and ask them about the recommended temperature setting for that particular unit.

Sorry I couldn't help you more...I'm going to do a little more searching to see if there are any issues related to extreme low freezer temperatures. If I find any information I'll email you.

Carol C. Schlitt
Extension Educator, Nutriton and Wellenss
University of Illinois Extension