USDA CONSUMER ALERT: Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency

USDA CONSUMER ALERT: Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency

Donna Karlsons (301) 344-4764

WASHINGTON - Dec. 16, 2008 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing recommendations to the regions affected by severe winter weather in Northeastern states. USDA is hopeful that this information will help minimize the potential for foodborne illnesses due to power outages and other problems that are often associated with severe weather events.

"Power outages can occur at any time of the year and it often takes from a few hours to several days for electricity to be restored to residential areas," said USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. H. Scott Hurd. "Without electricity or a cold source, foods stored in refrigerators and freezers can become unsafe. Bacteria in food grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 and 140 °F, and if these foods are consumed, people can become very sick."

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