Here are some food storage and safety tips during a power outage:
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. All refrigerated foods can be safe for four hours if the door is kept closed.
If the refrigerator temperature rises above 40°F, most foods can be stored for no longer than two hours. Watch for signs of spoilage such as foul odor, texture changes, or sliminess. Immediately dispose of food showing signs of spoilage.
Full freezers can keep food safe for 48 hours, and half-filled freezers keep food safe for 24 hours.
Precautionary methods before power outages
Before a power outage, fill empty freezer space with water in clean, sanitized food-safe containers. The extra ice will help keep the freezer colder longer in an emergency.
Fill containers halfway, then freeze. The ice will expand. Add another inch of water and freeze again. Repeat until there is 1-inch headspace, then replace the lid. Also, when the water melts, it will provide safe, drinkable water.
What can you do after a power outage?
Frozen foods that have not fully thawed AND still have ice crystals indicate that they have not reached unsafe temperatures (above 40 degrees), so no dangerous pathogens are likely to grow in them. These foods can be refrozen.
When you refreeze food, freeze it quickly. Set your freezer’s temperature control on its coldest setting. After the food is well frozen, turn the temperature control to its usual setting to maintain 0°F or lower.
You can also refreeze many foods if they have been kept at a temperature no higher than 40°F for no longer than two days (about normal refrigerator temperature). It is recommended to utilize a fridge thermometer to ensure food does not reach unsafe temperatures.
However, use your best judgment, and don’t forget to check foods for signs of spoilage. When in doubt, throw it out. This is especially true for those with compromised immune systems, young children, seniors, and pregnant women.
While throwing out food due to an appliance failure or power outage is wasteful, it’s likely cheaper than paying for medical treatment due to foodborne illness.
Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or [email protected]. K-State Research & Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.