In response to recent tornadoes in the Midwest, U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issues recommendations to help affected residents minimize the potential for foodborne illnesses that could be caused by power outages and compromised food storage.
The agency provides steps to follow if the power goes out, after a weather emergency and to prepare for a possible weather emergency. USDA's
"A Consumer's Guide to Food Safety: Severe Storms and Hurricanes" is also available as a reference.
Affected residents with questions about the safety of their food can call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at (888) 674-6854. In addition, FSIS's virtual food safety expert app "Ask Karen," is available 24/7 to answer most questions. The free app is available for
Android and
iOS.
