I have an older side by side kenmore and the fridge wont go lower than 50.. I am afraid my food is going to spoil

If you put hot food in the unit it can take a full 24hrs or more to come back down to temperature that is why you don't do that, anything in your fridge that can spoil is most likely spoiled.

It sounds like the thyristor or temperature unit is malfunctioning have it checked out and replace it if faulty.

If new plumbing, system is flushing and may cause a bad taste or odd color.Has a food item spoiled?
Make sure that strong smelling food (for example, fish) is wrapped so that it
is airtight.
Clean out your freezer periodically and throw away any spoiled or suspect food. Place foods in airtight containers to prevent the transfer of odors.And also Flush out water hose from tap end to freezer with warm water And also clean fridge with wet cloth (with soap solution). And then clean with dry cloth. .Keep fridge door open after cleaning all compartments for 4hrs minimum, as fresh air could wipe out any bad odor in fridge. And then start using fridge. Hope, it's helpful.

let me suggest. 1st remove the ice bin. then access to the ice machine will be easier. Most are held in place with screw. But in most cases you can melt the ice by unplugging the fridge and leaving the door open for a few hours. Remove food that will spoil and put in ice chests.

Dear customer,

Plz perform the following checks..

Remove spoiled food

Clean refrigerator interior with a solution of hot water and baking soda

Clean the door seals

Remove breaker strips and check for wet insulation

Please rate this,Thank u

the problem is gas build up in your fridge
use arm and hammer baking soda boxes for the fridge.
that will help a lot

If i was in your shoes i would buy a new one,sorry,close,eire