Question about food safety...?

Question

We were without power for about 2 and a half days in about 106 degree tempratures. Everything in the freezer had gone down to a warm refrigerator temprature (not warm, kinda cool, but definately not refrigerator cool - I don't know the temp). I was wondering if our meat that was in there is any good still? We had chicken, ground beef, pork chops, salmon and hot dogs in there.
If we keep the food, would we be at risk for food poisoning?
Thanks!

Answer 1

Well... I think it's better to be safe than sorry. 2 and a half days is a very long time for meat... It more than likely went into the danger zone (Temperatures over 10 °C) and that means any kind of bacteria has already started to work because I'm quite sure it unfroze leaving it watery... That water is available water for any kind of microorganisms to develop and they do it really fast.
It's gonna be such a shame to throw that away but I believe it implies a big risk to eat it...

Hope it helps!

Answer 2

Yes, toss it. Even a power outage for 8 hours without opening the doors you'd be at risk. Call your insurance agent. If you have renters or homeowners insurance there's a clause for just this event. Ours covers up to $800 of food loss and the deductible is waived. Before you toss it, write down everything you're tossing for the insurance claim for proof. Then you'll get to replace it all.

Answer 3

Absolutely not, get rid of it all and start fresh. Be sure to wash the freezer and fridge out really well, as the bacteria are now present. Use a bleach solution to wash them out 1/4 cup Clorox to 1 gallon of water should do it.

Answer 4

If your food is under 40 degrees for more than 2hrs then you need to discard it. You are in the danger zone for food in the time span.

Answer 5

I would be afraid to use it. Better safe than sorry. And I don't think you are suppose to refreeze meat.