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Food Safety Works Colorado State University Extension
SafeFood Rapid Response Network

SafeFood Newsletter - Winter 1996/1997 - Vol. 1, No. 2

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Questions You Asked

Question: If the power goes out, how long will food in the refrigerator and freezer remain safe?

Answer: Leave the freezer door closed. A full freezer should keep food safe about 2 days; a half- full freezer, about 1 day. Add bags of ice or dry ice to the freezer if it appears the power will be off for an extended time. You can safely refreeze thawed foods that still contain ice crystals or feel cold to the touch. Refrigerated items should be safe as long as the power is out no more than about 4 to 6 hours. Discard any perishable food that has been above 40 degrees for 2 hours or more, and any food that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. Leave the door closed; every time you open it, cold air escapes causing the foods inside to reach unsafe temperatures. If it appears the power will be off more than six hours, transfer refrigerated perishable foods to an insulated cooler filled with ice or frozen gel packs.

Source: Food Safety Features. USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline.

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Updated Monday, August 29, 2011