USDA Shares Food Safety Tips for Consumers in Snowstorm Path
As Winter Storm Jonas continues to barrel toward the East Coast of the U.S., 16 states have been been issued blizzard warnings. The impending severe weather has prompted the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to issue food safety recommendations for the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions.
To reduce food waste and the risk of foodborne illness during the next few days, FSIS is urging consumers to practice the following recommendations.
Before you lose power:
If the power goes out: Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if the door is kept closed. A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half-full).