What should be done if a power outage occurs in a food storage facility?

When a power outage occurs in a food storage facility, the most critical action is to assess the temperature of the food. This step is essential because food that exceeds safe temperature limits may not be safe for consumption. Generally, the danger zone for food storage is between 41°F and 135°F, where bacteria can rapidly multiply. If the temperature of perishable items has risen above this limit for an extended period, it's necessary to discard those items to prevent foodborne illness.

Waiting for the power to return without taking further action could compromise the safety of the food. Cooking food immediately is not an appropriate response, as it doesn’t address the underlying temperature issue for items that may already be unsafe. Storing everything in ice is not feasible for all types of food and may not lower the temperature adequately for all items, especially when considering large quantities.

Therefore, the most responsible action during a power outage in a food storage facility is to assess the situation and discard any food products that have been put at risk.