There are several ways to keep your food safe from becoming spoiled by inclement weather. While having food that is not perishable and coolers is always a good thing, there are some rules you should follow to determine if food can be eaten after it has been stored in a refrigerator without power.
First, the United States Department of Agriculture doesn’t recommend that food be stored outside in the snow to preserve it. Even if the food is still in its original packaging, this could lead to premature thawing. Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors shut as much as possible. According to the USDA, food can be cold for 48 hours with less temperature exposure.
When determining whether food is safe to eat, the temperature is important. Foods such as meat, poultry, eggs, condiments like mayonnaise and fish sauce, refrigerated pieces of bread, dairy products, and pre-cut fruits and vegetables must be kept at 40 degrees Fahrenheit to remain fresh. It is safer to throw out such foods if they are heated for more than 2 hours.
However, some foods can withstand temperature changes, such as butter, Parmesan, and whole fruits and vegetables. You can eat shelf-stable foods such as canned fruits and vegetables and meats that don’t need to be stored at certain temperatures during power outages.
You can check your freezer items when your power goes out. If you see any ice crystals, they can be safely refrigerated. To avoid food poisoning and other adverse reactions, it is best to dispose of the food immediately. Exotic wildlife parks may accept donations of fruits and vegetables from your fridge, as long as they are not mouldy.
While having food that is not perishable and coolers is always a good thing, there are some rules you should follow to determine if food can be eaten after it has been stored in a refrigerator without power.
First, the United States Department of Agriculture doesn’t recommend that food be stored outside in the snow to preserve it. Even if the food is still in its original packaging, this could lead to premature thawing. Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors shut as much as possible. According to the USDA, food can be cold for 48 hours with less temperature exposure.
When determining whether food is safe to eat, the temperature is important. Foods such as meat, poultry, eggs, condiments like mayonnaise and fish sauce, refrigerated pieces of bread, dairy products, and pre-cut fruits and vegetables must be kept at 40 degrees Fahrenheit to remain fresh. It is safer to throw out such foods if they are heated for more than 2 hours.