Japan, Russia Tsunami: What Is Safe To Eat? Explained As Floodwater May Contaminate Food
Following an 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Russia, tsunami waves also reached Japan's Pacific coastline, prompting alerts throughout the region.
A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday, triggering tsunami waves across the Pacific. In Russia, the coastal areas of the Kuril Islands have reported flooding and damage to buildings. Meanwhile, tsunami waves have also reached Japan's Pacific coastline, prompting alerts throughout the region.
Aerial footage from Severo-Kurilsk in Russia shows seawater flooding streets and breaching inland areas. Warnings have also been issued for parts of the US such as California, Alaska and Hawaii, as well as coastal regions stretching towards New Zealand, AP reported.
Eyewitness footage showing #tsunami waves crashing onto the coastal town of Severo-Kurilsk in #Russia 's Sakhalin region following an #earthquake in Kamchatka. pic.twitter.com/KpbIwDe8Kj — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) July 30, 2025
According to Japanese broadcaster NHK World, waves have now risen from 20 cm earlier in the morning to as high as 60 cm in places like Kuji Port and Hamanaka town. Authorities warn that waves could reach up to 3 metres in some areas.
Big waves barreling towards Japan's coastline A powerful reminder of nature's force pic.twitter.com/EWpmGJx1wB
— RT (@RT_com) July 30, 2025
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, a major concern for affected communities is food safety. When floodwaters enter homes and storage areas, they can bring in sewage, harmful chemicals and bacteria, which can make food unsafe to eat.
Here are the key safety measures people should follow regarding food and water in tsunami-affected areas:
Discard Food That Came In Contact With Floodwater
Any food that has come into contact with floodwater must be thrown away immediately, especially items like raw meat, fish, poultry, eggs and cooked leftovers. Floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals and bacteria, and exposure can make food unsafe to eat.
Food left at room temperature for over two hours should also be discarded as bacteria multiply rapidly in such conditions. If you notice any unusual smell, colour or texture, do not take a chance, consume only what is safe as eating contaminated food can lead to serious foodborne illnesses.
Stick To Sealed, Packaged Food
It is safest to eat only food that was sealed in waterproof packaging before the flooding. This includes commercially packed items like granola bars, dry fruits, nuts and other sealed snacks. Make sure the packaging is intact and has no leaks.
Inspect Cans Carefully Before Using
Canned food can be safe to use, but only if the can is undamaged. Avoid using any cans that are bulging, leaking, rusted or dented. Food containers with screw caps, snap lids, crimped caps or flip tops should be discarded if they have been in contact with floodwater.
Clean, Safe Water Is A Must
Drinking and cooking water must be safe. Use bottled water if available. If not, boil water thoroughly or treat it using water purification tablets as advised by health authorities. Even for washing hands, cooking utensils or brushing teeth, only use water that is safe.
Keep Hands And Surfaces Clean
Always wash your hands with clean water and soap before handling food or eating. If clean water isn't available, alcohol-based hand sanitisers can be used temporarily. Clean all kitchen surfaces, utensils and containers with soap and water if they have come in contact with floodwater. Sanitise with a bleach solution or by boiling when possible.
How To Decide About Thawed Food
If the power supply is affected and freezers are not running, check the condition of thawed food. If food still feels refrigerator-cold or contains ice crystals, it may be safe to refreeze or cook. Otherwise, it is best to discard it if there is any doubt to avoid any future problems.
Infant Feeding Needs Special Care
For babies who are not breastfed, only use pre-mixed formula that comes in ready-to-feed cans or containers. Do not mix formula with tap water or untreated water under any condition. Use bottled water or boiled water as a last resort.
Follow Official Alerts
Always follow instructions from local emergency services and health departments. They will provide updates on food and water safety, evacuation measures and relief resources as the situation develops.
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July 30, 2025, 12:16 IST
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