Keep foods covered. Even if the food appears to be dry it still may not be safe. Throw away all meats, fish, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables that have come in contact with flood water. As well, food in glass or plastic jars and bottles may be unsafe as the flood water may seep into the lids of these containers and may contaminate the food. Inspect food carefully after a flood.
Contamination can occur if bacteria in flood water come in contact with food.
Only food in sealed, airtight metal cans is entirely safe, however, the cans must be carefully cleaned and disinfected before use. Cans that are bulging or damaged are considered unsafe and unusable and should be thrown away immediately. Home canned foods in glass containers that have come in contact with flood water are not safe. Throw away the food and the flat part of the lid. The empty jars can be sterilized for future use.