Thunderstorms: Power Outage - Keeping Food Safe

It's important to be aware that food that has not been refrigerated can cause severe health problems. 

Remember that: 

• Items in a full freezer will stay frozen for about two days with the door kept closed; in a half-full freezer, for about one day. 

• Refrigerated foods can keep for up to four hours. 

• Discard any perishable refrigerated foods that have been above 40 degrees F for more than two hours.

• Discard any food with an unusual odor, color or texture.

Remember: "When in doubt, throw it out." For additional information about food safety during power outages, call the toll-free USDA Meat and  Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555.