Hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and, unfortunately, power outages that may last for hours or even days. While we prepare for the storm by securing our homes and stocking up on supplies, it’s crucial to consider what happens to our food during and after a power outage. Proper food safety practices can help prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure that you and your family stay healthy after the storm has passed.

Assessing the Situation

First and foremost, if you experience a power outage during a hurricane, the safety of your food depends on how long the power is out and how well your refrigerator and freezer maintain their temperatures. Here are some guidelines to help you make informed decisions about your food:

1. Refrigerated Food: If the power is out for 4 hours or less, your refrigerated food should be safe to eat. However, if the outage lasts longer than that, it’s best to discard perishable items like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. These foods can become unsafe after they reach temperatures above 40°F (4°C).
2. Freezer Food: A full freezer will keep food frozen for about 48 hours if the door remains closed. If the freezer is only half full, that time decreases to about 24 hours. If some of your frozen food still has ice crystals and is at 32°F (0°C) or below, it’s safe to refreeze or cook. However, if the food has thawed completely and has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, it’s best to throw it away. (Click Here for a Full List)
3. Canned Goods: If you have canned goods that were stored in the refrigerator, and they were exposed to temperatures above 40°F, it’s safest to discard them. Canned foods can spoil, especially if the can is damaged or if they’ve been in contact with water during the storm.
4. Dry Goods and Staples: Foods like grains, pasta, and canned items that were stored in a dry area and are not affected by water are generally safe to keep. However, always check for signs of damage or spoilage before consumption.

Tips for Future Preparation

To minimize food waste and ensure your safety during future storms, consider these tips:

• Have a Thermometer: Keep a refrigerator and freezer thermometer handy to monitor temperatures during power outages.
• Know Your Inventory: Before a hurricane hits, familiarize yourself with what’s in your refrigerator and freezer, and prioritize using perishable items first.
• Emergency Supplies: Stock up on non-perishable foods, bottled water, and ice packs to help keep your fridge and freezer cold during outages.

Conclusion

After a hurricane, your priority should be ensuring your family’s safety and health. When in doubt about the safety of your food, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard questionable items. By following these food safety guidelines, you can help prevent foodborne illnesses and make sure that your recovery after a storm is as smooth as possible. Stay safe, and be prepared!

Food Safety During Power Outage | FoodSafety.gov