Following these recommendations will help keep your food fresh and safe even during power outages.
This is reported by Rivne24
Preparing for a Power Outage:
- Prepare an ice supply by keeping several bags in the freezer — this will help maintain the cold when the power goes out.
- Purchase ice packs that will be useful for cooling boxes or insulated bags.
Ensure you have a stock of non-perishable food items: canned goods, grains, nuts, and dried fruits will serve as a reliable supply in case of a prolonged power outage.
When the Power is Already Out:
- Use ice and ice packs to preserve food.
- Move perishable items to insulated bags or boxes with ice.
- If the outage lasts more than 4 hours, place ice on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator and the top of the freezer.
Separate the food: keep perishable items in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer. The doors should remain closed, as this will help maintain the cold longer:
- refrigerator – up to 4 hours;
- freezer – up to 48 hours.
Fill the refrigerator wisely: a full refrigerator retains cold better than an empty one. If there is space, place bottles of water inside.
After Power is Restored:
- Check the temperature of the food.
- If food has been above 4 °C for more than 2 hours, it is better not to consume it.
- Refreeze only those items that remain partially frozen or have a temperature of up to 4 °C.
Check the smell, color, and texture of the food. If they appear questionable or have an off smell, discard them. Never taste spoiled food.
What Can Replace a Refrigerator:
- cooler bag;
- food thermos (can be pre-cooled);
- cellar or basement;
- thermal processing (boiling, stewing).