These food safety tips will come in handy during the next electrical outage.

Questions like “How long will meat last in the freezer without power?”

Jake Sternquist

How Long Will Meat Last in the Freezer Without Power?

food in fridgerator after power goes out

Credit:Jake Sternquist

Items that retain ice crystals or a 40F or below temperature are safe to refreeze.

How Long Will Meat Last in the Refrigerator Without Power?

Fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, as well as cooked vegetables, should go in the garbage too.

“When in doubt, throw it out” is your guiding principle, according to the organization.

“, you may be wondering what steps you should take when your electricity goes out.

When it comes to your perishable foods, you should leave them beat least for a bit.

The CDC notes you should keep the doors to your fridge and freezer closed during a power outage.

Preparing in advance will help you weather the power outage and limit losses triggered by the occurrence.

Jellies, jams, and syrups are also safe to keep because sugar acts as a preservative.

When temperatures dip, it is tempting to use outdoor spaces as an extension of the refrigerator or freezer.

Still, the USDA recommends against it as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and cause food to spoil.

You also risk exposing your food to unsanitary conditions and the attention of curious, hungry animals.

Many power companies will reimburse you for spoiled food if the power outage is their fault.

Contact your local power company to find out their policy and how to make a claim.

“Keep Food Safe After a Disaster or Emergency.”

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Refrigerated Food and Power Outages: When to Save It and When to Throw It Out.”

“Keep Your Food Safe During Emergencies: Power Outages, Floods & Fires.”

Food Safety and Inspection Service U.S. Department of Agriculture.