Food safety: What to keep and what to toss after prolonged power outage

Hydro crews work to restore power on Mon., March 31, 2025, following a destructive ice storm in Simcoe County. (CTV News/Steve Mansbridge)

After a destructive ice storm left thousands across Central Ontario without power for days, many residents are left wondering whether the food in their fridges and freezers is still safe to eat. Food safety experts warn that perishable items left above 4C (40F) for more than two hours could pose serious health risks.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) advises that when in doubt, it’s best to throw it out. Bacteria can multiply rapidly at warmer temperatures, increasing the risk of food-borne illness.

Refrigerated Foods

If the power outage lasted more than two hours and food was stored above 4C, several items should be discarded, including:

• Meat, poultry, seafood (raw or cooked)
• Eggs and egg-based dishes
• Dairy products like milk, cream, yogurt, sour cream, and soft cheeses (such as brie, cottage cheese, and mozzarella)
• Prepared foods such as soups, stews, casseroles, and salads containing meat, eggs, or mayonnaise
• Perishable condiments like creamy salad dressings, spaghetti sauce, and opened fish sauces
• Cooked vegetables, pasta, and rice

Hard cheeses, processed cheese slices, butter, and margarine remain safe, even if stored above 4C for several hours.

Frozen Foods

If your freezer still contains ice crystals and feels as cold as a refrigerator, most foods can be refrozen safely, though some may lose texture and flavour. However, SMDHU says any frozen food that has been held above 4C for more than two hours should be discarded, including:

• Poultry, ground meat, and seafood
• Casseroles, stews, soups, and dairy-based dishes
• Ice cream and frozen yogurt

Fruits and fruit juices may be safe to refreeze, but should be checked for signs of spoilage, such as a yeasty smell or mold growth.

Shelf-Stable Items

Certain foods, such as unopened canned goods, peanut butter, hard cheeses, and vinegar-based condiments (like mustard and ketchup), remain safe at room temperature. However, opened perishable canned items, such as meats and fish, should be discarded.

Check Before You Eat

If food smells off, has a slimy texture, or shows signs of mold, it should not be consumed.

“Even if food looks and smells fine, bacteria that cause illness may still be present,” experts warn. “Never taste food to determine its safety.”

Residents without power should continue to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain cold temperatures. A full freezer can hold its temperature for about 48 hours if unopened, while a half-full freezer lasts about 24 hours.

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