Food Safety During Power Outages: Expert Guidance on Refrigeration

Why it matters locally: Given Hawaii's vulnerability to tropical storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters that frequently cause power outages, adherence to these food safety guidelines is particularly crucial for residents to prevent foodborne illnesses and reduce waste.

When a power outage occurs, refrigerators and freezers have a limited capacity to keep food safe. Food safety experts advise consumers on how long items typically remain at safe temperatures, what signs indicate spoilage, and actions people can take before an outage to minimize waste. Refrigerators generally maintain safe temperatures for approximately four hours if individuals keep the door closed. A full freezer can keep food frozen for about 48 hours, while a half-full freezer holds temperature for roughly 24 hours. These estimations rely on doors remaining shut to prevent cold air from escaping. Several indicators suggest food may no longer be safe to consume after a power interruption. Experts recommend discarding any perishable food, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers, that has been above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours or more. If food shows unusual odor, color, or texture, individuals should also dispose of it. Preparing for potential power outages can help preserve food. Experts suggest having appliance thermometers in both the refrigerator and freezer to monitor internal temperatures. Freezing containers of water or gel packs can help keep food colder for longer. Consumers can also consolidate perishable items into the freezer if space allows, as a full freezer retains cold more effectively.