food poisoning - Diet & Nutrition Message Board

Dondee · 07-03-2002, 08:09 AM

i am probably in the wrong category, but i could not find the correct one. if i am in the wrong spot, please refer me to the correct one. i foolishly left me freezer door open for two days while i was away. this was an accident, of course. naturally, i tossed away the raw chicken and meats. but here is my question, are the pre-cooked meats and vegetables likely spoiled or are they likely ruined. please advise. thank you.

Jay Tor · 07-03-2002, 10:17 AM

Hi - had this happen to us too. Messy and expensive.

Because they were in the same space as the raw meats, there's a good chance that the luncheon meats, eggs and dairy have been contaminated. Produce might be spoiled either from contamination or just because the temperature was warm enough for rotting/fermentation to progress.

You should also check the condiments [ketchup, jams, etc.]. Anything that says 'keep refrigerated after opening' is suspect.

Safest thing is to empty the fridge, wash thoroughly with liquid dish detergent and bleach [chlorine], rinse well, allow to air dry and re-stock. If you notice any smells still lingering after this, you may have to re-wash, etc.

Wash and check the rubber seal around the fridge door -these accidents happen more often when the seal is dirty or dries out.