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Food Safety After a Flood

After a flood, carefully inspect food. Contamination can occur if filth and disease bacteria in flood waters cover, drip or seep into food.

• If you are unsure about the condition of any food, throw it away.
• Discard foods packed in foil, cellophane, paper, cloth or cardboard that have come in contact with flood waters. Even if the contents seem dry, they may not be safe.
• Discard flooded meats, fish, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as foods packaged in crown-capped bottles, and glass or plastic jars and bottles. Filth from flood waters can get up under the lip of these lids and contaminate the food.
• Only foods in sealed, airtight metal cans are safe for use. Carefully clean and disinfect the cans before opening, using one of the following two methods:

Method 1:

1. Remove labels and re-label cans with a permanent marker.
2. Wash cans in a strong detergent solution. Use a scrub brush to remove all dirt.
3. To disinfect, immerse cans for 2 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon household unscented laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water..
4. Rinse in disinfected water.
5. Air dry (Towels spread bacteria).

Method 2:

Place cans in boiling water, and boil for 10 minutes. (Cans will not explode. Do not boil longer than 10 minutes.)

 

• Throw away cans that are bulging or damaged; they are not safe.

• Home-canned foods covered with flood water are not safe. Throw away the food and sterilize the empty jars and rings. Discard the flat.

For more information, contact the University of Missouri Extension center in your county, or call 573-882-7477.

 

 

Reviewed 06/30/08