Suggested anchor lead: With the largest blackout in North American history having an effect on as many as 50 million people, food spoilage can be a problem when refrigerators and freezers lose power.  What should you throw out when the light go out?  Peter Kastella has the details.

Blackouts present a problem for safe food storage, as disabled refrigerators and freezers leave perishable food items open to spoilage and food borne illness.  To keep your food safe and family healthy during a power outage, the American Dietetic Association and ConAgra foods recommend following a few simple tips.  Registered Dietitian Carolyn O�Neil explains:

�During a blackout, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed and open them only when necessary.  If power is restored within four hours, items in the refrigerator should be safe to eat.  A full freezer with stay at freezing temperatures for two days if the door remain closed; a half-full freezer for just one day.  When power is restored, allow time for the refrigerator to reach below 40 degrees fahrenheit before restocking.  And of course, when in doubt, throw it out!�

For more information on home food safety, visit the a-d-a conagra foods web site at w-w-w-dot-home-food-safety-dot-org.

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