Quick Answer
When power is restored, ensure food safety by checking for spoilage, cooking food to the recommended internal temperature, and keeping food at a safe minimum temperature of 140°F (60°C). Discard perishable food that has been at room temperature for more than two hours. Use a food thermometer to ensure food is safely cooked.
Assessing Food Safety
When the power is restored, inspect your refrigerator and freezer for any signs of spoilage. Check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer using a thermometer. If the temperature has been above 40°F (4°C) for more than two hours, discard all perishable food. If the power outage lasted for less than 4 hours, check the food for any visible signs of spoilage. Discard any food that has an off smell, slimy texture, or mold.
Cooking Food to a Safe Temperature
Cooking food to the recommended internal temperature is crucial for food safety. For example, ground beef, pork, and lamb should be cooked to 160°F (71°C), while chicken and turkey should be cooked to 165°F (74°C). Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of your food has reached a safe level. When cooking, use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the food, avoiding any bones or fat.
Storing Food Safely
Once food has been safely cooked, store it in the refrigerator or freezer at a safe temperature. Use shallow containers to cool food quickly, and label the containers with the date and contents. When storing food in the refrigerator, keep it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. When storing food in the freezer, keep it at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Use a food thermometer to ensure the temperature is within the safe range.
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