How to prevent food poisoning during a blackout: guidelines for food storage and handling.

Every day, Ukrainians face numerous challenges, one of which is the periodic loss of electricity for extended periods. This creates difficulties, particularly in food preservation.

To prevent food poisoning caused by temperature disruptions, the “State Food Safety and Consumer Protection Service” recommends following these guidelines:

• During a power outage, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed, as food will remain safe for up to 4 hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in a full freezer (24 hours in a partially filled freezer);

• If the power is out for 4 hours or longer, it is best to group food together in the freezer. The refrigerator should maintain a temperature of +4°C or lower, while the freezer should not exceed -4°C;

• Do not taste the food. If you have any doubts about its safety, it’s better to discard it immediately;

• Dispose of perishable items. This includes meat, fish, cut fruits and vegetables, eggs, dairy products, and leftovers that have been without power or cooling for more than 4 hours;

• Food that has a temperature of +4°C or below, or contains ice crystals, can be safely refrozen or cooked;

• Do not thaw food at room temperature;

• When storing, keep raw food separate from cooked food, and store items in closed containers to avoid contact between ready-to-eat products and raw items;

• Cook or boil food thoroughly, especially meat, eggs, and seafood. Ensure dishes reach a boiling point and cook for at least 70°C;

• Use clean or purified water – preferably bottled drinking water from industrial sources or water from verified sources, which should be further boiled.

It is also important to adhere to the following hygiene requirements:

1. Wash your hands: before handling food, after using the restroom, or if there is no water during a power outage in your home, you can use alcohol-based hand sanitizers or wet wipes;

2. Disinfect surfaces: wash and disinfect all surfaces and kitchen utensils used for food preparation;

3. Thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits: in case of water supply interruption, it’s advisable to have a supply of clean bottled drinking water from industrial sources;

4. Protect your kitchen and food from insects, rodents, and other animals.