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Grocery Stores Toss Food Due to Power Outages
10 Jun
Summary
- Perishable food was discarded by grocery stores after recent storms.
- Food banks prioritize safety and refuse spoiled donations.
- The 'two-hour rule' guides food safety after power loss.
Following severe storms and subsequent power outages, grocery stores in the Pittsburgh region faced the difficult decision of discarding large quantities of perishable food. Photos from a local Cash Saver grocery store in Connellsville revealed dumpsters filled with spoiled items, prompting questions about alternative solutions, such as donation.
However, health and safety concerns were cited as the primary reason for disposal. Food bank officials stated that any food deemed unfit for sale due to spoilage after a power outage would also be unsuitable for donation. Adherence to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's 'two-hour rule' is crucial; refrigerated items left at room temperature for over two hours are considered unsafe for consumption.
Representatives from the Westmoreland County Food Bank shared personal experiences of food loss due to power interruptions, reinforcing their commitment to not distributing potentially unsafe food to those in need. While the storms caused significant disruption, some stores, like the Cash Saver, were reportedly receiving new food shipments.
