How Houston Residents Can Keep Food Safe During Power Outages

Power outages are nothing new to Houston, but knowing how to keep your food safe during them can make all the difference. With storms, extreme heat, and grid stress always a possibility, local families often find themselves wondering how long groceries will last without power—and when it's time to toss them.

Food safety experts say the key is preparation. A well-organized refrigerator and freezer can keep food cold longer than many people realize. A full freezer, for example, can hold safe temperatures for up to 48 hours if the door stays closed. A refrigerator can usually maintain safe conditions for around four hours. Anything beyond that requires close attention.

How to Make Your Food Last Longer

Simple strategies help preserve freshness. Freeze containers of water ahead of storms to create makeshift ice packs. Move high-risk foods—like meat, dairy, and leftovers—to the coldest part of the fridge. Group items together to maintain stable temperatures.

Dry ice can also be a lifesaver. With enough on hand, you can keep refrigerators cold for an entire day and freezers solid even longer. Experts recommend keeping a list of local suppliers so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute.

Keeping appliance thermometers inside both the fridge and freezer is another smart move. They offer quick confirmation when safe temperatures—40°F or below for the fridge and 0°F or below for the freezer—have been maintained.

When You Should Throw Food Out

Once food warms above 40°F for more than two hours, the risk of bacterial growth skyrockets. High-risk items like milk, cooked meats, soft cheeses, and leftovers should be thrown away if they sit above that temperature range too long. When in doubt, experts recommend tossing the item instead of risking illness.

Some foods are safer than others. Condiments, bread, whole fruits, and hard cheeses can survive longer without refrigeration. Still, any food with an unusual odor, color, or texture is best discarded.

Why It Matters in Houston

Houston’s unpredictable weather means outages can strike any season. With extreme heat accelerating food spoilage, understanding safety guidelines helps families avoid illness and save money by extending the life of their groceries.

Whether you’re preparing for hurricane season or bracing for severe storms, a little planning helps ensure you keep your kitchen safe even when the lights go out.

This article is a summary of reporting by Houston Chronicle. Read the full story here.