How safe is frozen food if left unpowered for 24 hours?

Frozen food will typically remain safe to consume for up to two days if left unpowered in a full freezer, four hours in a half-full freezer, and 24 hours in an unopened cooler or refrigerator. However, frozen foods that have thawed slightly at above 40°F (4°C) for more than two hours should not be refrozen. The exact time varies based on the type and quantity of food, the amount of time it has been unfrozen, and the packaging it is in.

After a power outage, it's important to check the temperature of your frozen foods as soon as possible. Use a food thermometer to ensure that the food has remained at a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below. Food that has thawed above 40°F (4°C) for more than two hours should not be refrozen and should be discarded to avoid the risk of bacterial contamination.

For foods that have thawed slightly but are still at or below 40°F (4°C), you can safely cook and consume them without fear of illness. Simply thaw the food in the refrigerator or under cold running water and then cook it thoroughly before eating.

To be safe, it is best to consume all thawed food as soon as possible and avoid refreezing it. Freezing and thawing food multiple times can compromise the quality and nutritional value of the food, and it can increase the risk of bacterial growth. If you have any doubts about the safety of frozen food, it is always better to err on the side of caution and throw it away.