Time-temperature profiling of UK consumers’ domestic refrigerators

Increased consumer demand for convenience and ready-to-eat (RTE) food, along with changes to consumer food purchase and storage practices have resulted in an increased reliance on refrigeration to maximize food safety. Previous research suggests that many domestic refrigerators operate at temperatures exceeding recommendations, however several studies are determined by means of one temperature data point, which, given temperature fluctuation, may not be a true indicator of actual continual operating temperature. Data detailing actual operating temperature and the impact of consumer practice on temperature are limited. This study has collated the time-temperature profiles of domestic refrigerators in consumer kitchens (n=43) over 6.5 days with concurrent self-report refrigerator usage. Overall, findings established a significant difference (p<0.05) between one-off temperature and mean operating temperature. No refrigerator operated at ≤5.0°C for the entire duration of the study. Mean temperatures exceeding 5.0°C were recorded in the majority (91%) of refrigerators. No significant associations or differences were determined between temperature profiles and demographics including household size and refrigerator characteristics (age, type, loading and location). A positive correlation (p<0.05) between room temperature and refrigerator temperature was determined. Reported door opening frequency correlated with temperature fluctuation (p