After a power outage, ensuring the safety of your food is crucial to prevent foodborne illness. Here are expert-backed steps to follow.
Check Food Temperatures
Use a food thermometer to check the temperature of perishable items. If the temperature is above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours, discard the food.
Keep Refrigerator and Freezer Doors Closed
A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can maintain temperature for up to 48 hours. Half-full freezers last about 24 hours.
Discard Perishable Items
Throw away meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and leftovers that have been above 4°C for two hours or more. When in doubt, throw it out.
Frozen Food Safety
If food still contains ice crystals or is below 4°C, it can be refrozen. However, discard any thawed items that have been above 4°C for two hours.
Use Dry Ice or Block Ice
If the power is out for an extended period, use dry ice or block ice to keep the refrigerator cold. Fifty pounds of dry ice can keep a 10-cubic-foot freezer cold for two days.
When to Restock
After power is restored, check the temperature of the refrigerator. If it is below 4°C, you can restock with new perishables. Clean the refrigerator thoroughly before restocking.
