Guidelines for Food Safety After the Power Outage in Spain
Following the recent blackout in Spain, many residents are left uncertain about the condition of their refrigerated food. The general guidance suggests that if the refrigerator or freezer door was not opened during the outage, the food may still be safe. According to a report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a full freezer can maintain a safe temperature for up to 48 hours without power, while a half-full freezer can keep food safe for approximately 24 hours. In contrast, a refrigerator can keep items safe for about four hours.
To assess whether food has remained safe, it's essential to check the interior temperature of the refrigerator, which should not exceed four degrees Celsius. If the temperature has risen above this level for more than four hours, certain foods need to be discarded to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The USDA recommends that the following items be discarded if they have exceeded the four-hour threshold: raw or cooked meats, fish, eggs, prepared meals (such as pizza or soup), milk, dairy products including yogurt and fresh cheeses, cut fruits and vegetables, opened fruit juices, cakes, as well as any creamy sauces or opened jars of mayonnaise. Furthermore, if any food exhibits unusual colors or odors, the safest choice is to throw it away.
For those dealing with frozen foods, there is a bit more leeway. If foods still contain ice crystals and have remained frozen, they are typically safe to consume. The USDA highlights that certain items, which are less sensitive to temperature variations, can still be safe even after a power outage. These include acidic condiments such as mustard and ketchup, jams, whole fruits and vegetables, nuts, bread, cakes, as well as butter, margarine, and aged cheeses.
In summary, it's critical for consumers to gauge the safety of their food after a power outage. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent health risks during these inconvenient situations. For the latest updates and safety tips, consider downloading the El Huffpost app available on both Android and iOS.
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