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How Long Will Your Food Last in the Fridge Without Power?

How Long Will Your Food Last in the Fridge Without Power

When a power outage occurs, one of the biggest concerns is food safety in the fridge and freezer. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine how long food will last without power, and it’s important to know what to do to prevent foodborne illness. Here’s a guide to how long food will last in the fridge without power and what you can do to keep your food safe.

Fridge: 4 Hours

The USDA recommends that food in the fridge should be safe for up to 4 hours without power. After this time, perishable items like meat, dairy, and eggs should be discarded. To maximize the life of your food, keep the fridge door closed as much as possible, and consider grouping items together to create a “cold zone” in the center of the fridge.

Freezer: 48 Hours

A well-stocked freezer can keep food safe for up to 48 hours without power. To maximize the life of your food, keep the freezer door closed as much as possible, and consider grouping items together to create a “cold zone” in the center of the freezer.

Keep these time frames in mind!

Dairy Products – 2 hours

Milk, cream, yogurt, and other dairy products are the most perishable items in your fridge. They should be thrown out if the temperature inside the fridge is above 40°F for more than 2 hours.

Meat, Poultry, and Fish – 4 hours

Raw and cooked meats, poultry, and fish are also highly perishable. They can quickly spoil when the temperature inside the fridge is above 40°F. They should be discarded if they’ve been at room temperature for more than 4 hours.

Hard Cheeses – 8 hours

Hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss can last up to 8 hours without refrigeration. However, if the temperature inside the fridge is above 40°F for more than 2 hours, it’s best to throw them out.

Eggs – 4 hours

Eggs are another perishable food item that should be thrown out if they’ve been at room temperature for more than 4 hours.

Fruits and Vegetables – 4 hours

Fruits and vegetables can last for up to 4 hours without refrigeration. However, if the temperature inside the fridge is above 40°F for more than 2 hours, it’s best to throw them out.

Condiments and Sauces – 2 hours

Condiments and sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce, are perishable and should be thrown out if they’ve been at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Reheating

If you’ve saved food from the fridge or freezer, it’s important to reheat it to 165°F in order to kill any potential bacteria.

Following these guidelines can keep your food safe during a power outage. Remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and discard any food you’re unsure about.

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