How Long Can Food Stay in Freezer Without
⚡ P
ower?
⚡ Power Out? Don't Throw Everything Away Yet.
A closed refrigerator usually keeps food safe for up to 4 hours.
A full freezer can keep food frozen for about 48 hours.
A half-full freezer usually lasts about 24 hours.
Milk, yogurt, raw meat, seafood, leftovers.
Butter, hard cheese, fruits, vegetables, condiments.
Don't keep opening the fridge.
Every opening lets cold air escape.
Ice crystals still on frozen food?
It's usually safe to keep.
Don't trust smell alone.
Food can look and smell normal but still be unsafe.
Ask yourself:
• How long was the outage?
• Was the door kept closed?
When you're unsure about meat or dairy,
it's safer to throw it away.
Know what's safe before you eat. Read the complete food safety guide.
Learn more