Discard Food and Drinks Affected by Floodwater

Water Damage: Food and Drink Disposal

When dealing with the aftermath of a flood, discarding spoiled food and drinks is crucial to prevent health hazards and minimize water damage. Here’s how to safely dispose of affected items:

Perishables

  • Refrigerated or frozen items that have been above 40°F (4°C) for more than 2 hours must be discarded.
  • Opened and unrefrigerated perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and cooked foods, should be discarded immediately.

Non-Perishables

  • Canned goods with bulging or rusted cans must be discarded.
  • Unopened, undamaged canned goods can be saved, but their contents should be handled carefully.
  • Plastic or glass containers may contain contaminated liquids or solids and should be discarded.

Beverages

  • Opened or unsealed beverage containers, including water bottles and juice boxes, should be discarded.
  • Unopened and undamaged beverage containers can be saved, but their contents should be thoroughly sanitized.

Additional Precautions

  • Wear protective gloves and clothing when handling contaminated items.
  • Rinse all reusable containers and surfaces with a bleach solution (1 cup bleach per gallon of water).
  • Contact your local disposal authority for proper waste disposal guidelines.

Remember:

Discarding flood-affected food and drinks is essential for protecting your health and preventing further damage to your property. By following these guidelines, you can safely dispose of spoiled items and ensure a clean and healthy environment after a flood.