Alberton still faces frequent power outages, and with the festive season approaching, households and businesses are buying more food than usual.

Power interruptions can quickly lead to spoilage, wasted money and potential health risks, so families and commercial kitchens need practical steps to protect their food and reduce losses.

Whether a home cook or running a food business, these tips will help you.

Power outages and tips to preserve food

• Minimise fridge and freezer use

Do not unnecessarily open the fridge and freezer. Keeping doors closed keeps cold air in and slows spoilage. This habit makes a significant difference;

• Prioritise perishable items

Use your perishable foods first. Fresh produce, dairy products and prepared meals quickly spoil, so eat them while still safe to avoid throwing them out;

• Choose less perishable foods

Avoid buying highly perishable foods during outages. Frozen meat is a better option than fresh meat, as it stays frozen for hours if the freezer stays closed. This works well for outages lasting four to five hours. If the power was off for longer, check that the meat has not defrosted to a risky temperature;

• Find fresh foods needing no refrigeration

Some fresh foods keep well at room temperature, like potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes and winter squashes. These versatile ingredients give you access to fresh produce during outages;

• Choose non-perishable options

Choose shelf-stable alternatives when possible. Long-life milk lasts longer than fresh milk. Canned vegetables, pasta, dried beans and grains store safely at room temperature and reduce the chance of food waste if the power goes out;

• Cook smaller batches of food

Large meals increase the risk of leftovers spoiling in an outage. Cooking smaller portions reduces waste and ensures that what you prepare remains safe to eat.

These measures ensure that even during ongoing outages, your food remains safe and your festive season remains stress-free.

•Source: Shane Rimmell