Survival guides · Water & Food

Food After a Flood

WHEN TO USE THISFloodwater carries sewage and chemicals. Anything it touched is suspect.

1. Throw out what it touched

   • All food that touched floodwater — no exceptions.
   • Fresh food, meat, anything opened.
   • Anything in cardboard, paper, foil, cloth or plastic wrap.
   • Home-canned jars too.
   • Odd smell, color or texture? Out.

2. Save sealed factory cans

   • Undamaged, store-bought cans can be saved.
   • Peel off the labels. Wash with soap and clean water.
   • Soak 15 minutes in 1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water — or boil them 2 minutes.
   • Re-label with a marker, including the expiration date.
   • Dented, swollen, rusted or leaking? Out.

3. The fridge and freezer

   • Flooded? Everything inside goes.
   • Clean and disinfect them before using again.
   • Motor or wiring went underwater? Have it checked before you plug it in.

Sources: USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service · CDC Flood Safety for Food

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.