Food Spoilage Timer — Is My Food Safe After a Power Outage?

Food Spoilage Timer

Power went out hours ago. Is what's in your refrigerator and freezer still safe to eat? Enter your situation for an estimate based on USDA food safety guidelines.

An open refrigerator lit from within in an otherwise dark kitchen, a small digital thermometer on the middle shelf reading 38 degrees

A thermometer on the middle shelf, reading thirty-eight. The USDA line is forty degrees, and an unopened refrigerator holds under it for roughly four hours — that reading is worth a great deal more than any guess about how long the power has been off.

Enter Your Situation

Select the food type, how long the power has been out, and your refrigerator or freezer situation. Results are based on USDA food safety guidelines.

1. Where is the food?

2. What type of food?

3. Hours since power went out

4. Refrigerator/freezer status

Door kept closed the whole timeBest case — holds temp longest Door opened occasionallyTypical — shortens safe window Fully packed / full freezerA full freezer stays cold longer than a half-empty one

I have read and agree to the Terms of Use, including the calculator disclaimer and the binding arbitration and class-action waiver. I understand that all results are planning estimates only, are not medical or safety determinations, and that I use them at my own risk.

What to do:

Planning estimate only. Based on USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidelines. Actual food safety depends on many factors including starting temperature, appliance condition, and specific food items. When in doubt, throw it out. Never taste food to determine if it is safe. Consuming spoiled food can cause serious illness — this risk is higher for adults over 65.

Common Questions

How long does food last in the refrigerator without power?

According to the USDA, a refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours if the door is kept closed. After 4 hours above 40°F, perishable foods enter the danger zone and bacteria multiply rapidly. A full freezer holds temperature for 48 hours; a half-full freezer for 24 hours.

Can I refreeze food that has thawed during a power outage?

You can safely refreeze food that still contains ice crystals or has been held at 40°F or below. If food has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, discard it — do not refreeze. The USDA states: "When in doubt, throw it out."

Is it safe to eat food that smells okay after a power outage?

No. Never use smell, color, or taste to determine food safety. Many dangerous bacteria — including Salmonella and E. coli — produce no detectable odor or taste. Older adults are at significantly higher risk of serious complications from foodborne illness. When in doubt, discard it.

What foods are safe to keep without refrigeration?

Shelf-stable foods safe without refrigeration include: canned goods, peanut butter, crackers, dry cereals, dried fruits, nuts, hard cheeses (waxed), fruit juices in sealed containers, and bread. Avoid any food that normally requires refrigeration once it has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours.