How long does food in the refrigerator and freezer keep is typically one of the first questions asked when the power goes out. Let’s find out what the USDA recommends.
As wildfires roar through the Los Angeles area, tens of thousands of people have been evacuated and thousands of households are without power.
If you have been evacuated or your power is out, here's what you should know about the food in your fridge.
How many hours does food stay good in the fridge?
Your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to four hours, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Get top local stories in DFW delivered to you every morning. Sign up for NBC DFW's News Headlines newsletter.
Too keep food cool, make sure to not open the fridge door unnecessarily to keep cold air inside.
Once the fourth hour passes, it's recommended to throw away perishables such as eggs, meat, poultry, fish and eggs.
What about the freezer?
U.S. & World
As for your freezer, food there can last much longer, especially if it’s full. Your frozen items will remain safe to eat for about 48 hours in a full fridge and about 24 hours in one that’s half full.
How can you tell if food is safe to eat?
If you’re not sure about something, do not taste it to try to figure it out, the USDA said. Instead, remember this adage: When in doubt, throw it out.
