Since last Thursday, August 1, several communities in Chile have been affected by a frontal system that has brought intense rains and strong gusts of wind. As a result of this meteorological phenomenon, many localities in the center and south of the country have experienced power outages, generating concern among residents, especially in relation to the conservation of the food stored in refrigerators.
According to data provided by the Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels (SEC), at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, August 2, more than 1,140,040 customers were without electricity throughout Chile. This massive power outage not only affects the daily activities of households, but also poses a significant challenge regarding food security, since the shelf life of food in good condition within a year is limited. fridge without electricity is limited.
In situations like these, it is critical to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain internal temperatures. According to Edison International, a refrigerator can keep food cold for up to four hours without power, while a full freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours. It is crucial to rule out any food that reaches a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) or higher, as this could pose a health risk.
The duration of food in the fridge The shelf life of food without light varies by type of food. Some items, such as hard and processed cheeses, butter and margarine, uncut fresh fruit, gelatin, vinegar-based dressings, and opened canned fruit, can be safely stored for more than two hours at temperatures above 4 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to check each food item for signs of spoilage before eating it.
In the event of a prolonged power outage, it is advisable to have an emergency plan for the conservation of food. One option is to use portable coolers with ice to transport the most perishable foods and thus keep them at a safe temperature for longer. It is also useful to have thermometers on hand. fridge and freezer to monitor temperatures and ensure food is kept in proper conditions.
