In Question

How long will food stay safe in my freezer?

Keeping food frozen at 0 degrees safely preserves foods because extreme cold stops the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria and molds that are present in food. However, storing it for long periods will affect taste, texture and quality. Freezer burn, while unappetizing, is not dangerous. Most foods taste best if they are eaten within a few months of freezing, although whole poultry and raw steaks and roasts can be frozen for up to a year. If your freezer is part of your refrigerator, it may not maintain a constant 0-degree temperature, especially if the door is opened often. So it’s best to use foods in freezer compartments as soon as possible. Freestanding freezers are best for long-term storage. Because thawing allows dormant microbes to become active, the safest way to thaw food safely is in the refrigerator.

I’ve heard reports about the safety of drinking water. Should I be concerned?

Recent studies have shown that there are trace amounts of a variety of prescription drugs and other pharmaceuticals in our drinking water. However, the amounts detected are well below a level considered unsafe. Research across the world has shown no effect from these substances on human health. Experts continue to improve our nation’s water-treatment systems and ability to detect trace amounts to an even lower level. To learn more about the purity of your community’s water supply, ask your water company for the latest consumer confidence report.

How much sleep does my teenager need?

While adults need seven to nine hours every night, research suggests that teens need between eight-and-a-half to nine-and- a-half hours a night to stay healthy. But busy schedules, late-night TV, computers, caffeine and early school starting times may keep teens from getting the rest they need. If your teen has trouble concentrating, can’t stay alert in school, nods off when reading or has a short fuse, sleep deprivation may be the problem. (The symptoms can be mistaken for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.) Make sure your teen’s bedroom is dark, quiet and comfortable for sleeping. Establish a routine for going to bed and waking at the same time every day. If these steps don’t help, talk with your teen’s doctor.

Back to Top