Have you ever returned home from a trip or vacation, only to find that the power had gone out while you were away? You’re left wondering if the food in your refrigerator and freezer is still safe to eat.
This concern is especially relevant during extended absences from home, such as evacuations or business trips. Fortunately, a clever tip shared by Sheila Pulanco Russell on Facebook can provide peace of mind and help determine if your food is still safe to consume.
The trick is surprisingly simple. All you need is a cup, some tap water, and a coin. Here’s how it works: fill the cup with water and place it in the freezer until the water is solid. Then, put a quarter on top of the frozen water and leave it in the freezer.
When you return home after an extended absence, check the cup. If the quarter has fallen to the bottom of the cup, it means the food in your freezer defrosted and refroze, making it potentially unsafe to eat. However, if the quarter is still on top or in the middle of the cup, your food may still be safe.
This clever tip can be used at any time, not just during evacuations or extended absences. By leaving the cup in your freezer, you’ll always have a way to determine if your food is safe to eat after a power outage.
As Sheila emphasizes, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. If in doubt, it’s best to discard the food to avoid any potential health risks.
