Handy Tips to Keep Your Food Fresher for Longer During Power Loss

Any unexpected power outage can put your fresh food at risk of spoiling. Whether due to wild weather, maintenance work, or unforeseen blackouts, knowing how to preserve your food without electricity can save money and prevent waste. Here are some handy hints to keep your food fresher for longer during power loss.

Before a Likely Power Outage:

  • Freeze Everything Possible – Store extra water bottles, bread, and even leftovers in the freezer. A full freezer retains cold longer than an empty one.
  • Adjust Your Fridge & Freezer Settings – Turn them to the coldest setting before an anticipated outage to extend cooling time.
  • Stock Up on Ice Packs or Frozen Water Bottles – These can help maintain cold temperatures in both the fridge and freezer.
  • Group Food Items Together – This helps retain cold air longer and slows down thawing.
  • Get a Cooler or Esky Ready – In case of an extended blackout, you can transfer essentials like milk, butter, and medicine to a well-iced cooler.
  • Invest in a Thermometer – A fridge thermometer will help monitor if food stays safe (below 5°C).

During the Power Outage:

  • make a note of the time the power failed
  • keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible while the power is off. A closed refrigerator should keep food cold for four hours
  • keep the freezer door closed. Freezers will usually not defrost and spoil food for at least 24 hours if half full or 48 hours if full. If frozen foods have thawed, they should not be refrozen but should be kept cold and be eaten as soon as possible.
  • If you have access to ice or ice bricks, pack your refrigerator and freezer to help maintain a cool temperature
  • throw out food that was being cooked when the power failed, if the cooking cannot be completed within 2 hours. If food is already properly cooked, eat it within 2 hours or throw it out.

After Power is Restored:

It is recommended that you dispose of:

  • food (packaged and unpackaged) that has been in contact with contaminated water (e.g. floodwater)
  • food that has an unusual odour, colour or texture
  • refrigerated food that has been left unrefrigerated or otherwise above 5°C for more than four hours
  • frozen food after 48 hours if the freezer is full, or after 24 hours if the freezer is half full. If frozen food has partially thawed, do not re-freeze. The food should be eaten as soon as possible or disposed of.

Extra Preparedness Tips:

  • Invest in a Generator – If you live in a cyclone-prone area, a backup generator can be a lifesaver.

  • Keep a Supply of Non-Perishable Foods – Stock up on canned goods, dried fruits, and long-life milk to reduce reliance on fresh foods.

  • Know Your Local Emergency Services – Some areas provide food safety assistance or even access to ice and refrigeration services during extended outages.

Power outages can be stressful, but with a little planning, you can minimise food waste and keep your household safe. Stay prepared, stay safe, and protect your food from spoiling!

 

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