Should I Throw Away Food After a House Fire Even If Sealed?

Fire produces intense heat and toxic smoke. Even if a jar or can looks intact, the heat can cause chemical changes inside the food. Smoke particles are tiny and can seep through plastic, cardboard, and even small gaps in metal lids.

Chemicals from burning materials, such as plastics and foams, can settle on packaging. These residues may transfer to the food when you open the container. The taste, smell, or color might not change, but the food can still be unsafe to eat.

• Discard all opened food and beverages
• Throw away food stored in cardboard, paper, or cloth
• Discard food in plastic wrap, bags, or containers
• Remove canned goods only if the can is undamaged
• Wash sealed cans with soap and water before deciding
• When in doubt, throw it out

Smoke and soot can travel through vents, gaps, and even walls. They settle on every surface, including your pantry shelves and inside cabinets. Even if a package looks clean, soot particles can be present on the outside and transfer to your hands or the food when you touch it.

Soot contains acidic and oily substances that can be harmful if ingested. Washing the outside of containers helps, but it does not remove all risk. For foods stored in porous packaging, like bread or cereal boxes, the risk is higher.

If you live in Burnsville, the humid continental climate can affect how quickly food spoils after a fire. Warm, humid conditions encourage mold and bacteria growth, so act quickly to clear out perishables.

After a fire, your home may have ongoing smoke odors. The pros who handle fire damage cleanup can help with structural drying and dehumidification, which also helps reduce lingering smells. For food, the rule is simple: when in doubt, discard.

• Discard any food with a smoky smell or taste
• Throw away food that was near the fire, even if sealed
• Do not use food that was in a refrigerator or freezer that lost power
• Keep a list of what you threw away for insurance purposes