During power outages, food spoilage can be a serious problem when refrigerators and freezers lose power. Avoid spoilage and foodborne illness in your home by making sure foods stay properly refrigerated during a power outage. Once the power is restored follow these tips:
- Check the temperature inside of your refrigerator and freezer. If it has risen to 45°F or higher, discard any potentially spoiled foods. Such foods include meat, poultry, fish, dairy and egg products, soft cheese, cooked beans, cooked rice, cooked potatoes, cooked pasta, potato salad, custard and pudding.
- Allow time for the refrigerator to reach below 40°F before restocking
- And of course, when in doubt, throw it out.