Q: What are the rules for storing leftover foods? How long do they last in the refrigerator?
A: I’m a big fan of leftovers, especially soups and stews which often taste better the day after cooking. Not to mention the convenience of not having to cook every night! I often favor batch cooking, so there are always leftovers in my refrigerator.
However, leftovers don’t last forever. The general rule is up to three days in the fridge provided food is stored in sealed containers. For example, if you roast a chicken on Sunday, that chicken and accompanying side dishes should be finished or sent to the compost bin by Wednesday or Thursday. Even in cold temperatures, bacteria can grow after four days in the fridge. If you have more than three or four days of leftovers, put them in the freezer, where they can keep for at least two months. With unopened foods brought at the grocery store, follow the expiration dates for ‘use by’ and ‘freeze by’.
For food safety purposes, make sure your refrigerator is always below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a good idea to pick up a thermometer at your local hardware store and keep it on the middle rack of the fridge shelf for a reliable temperature reading—not in the front, back, or door. Check food for any spoilage using your senses. Does it smell funny? Any fuzzies growing? Has it changed color or texture? And of course: when in doubt, throw it out.
Another food safety must: Don’t leave food out for hours after a meal. Bacteria begin to grow as food cools down, so be sure to store within two hours of cooking. At the very least, keep food covered to keep it safe from contamination. In hot weather, get prepared foods into the fridge within an hour after reasonably cooled. For quicker cooling, spread foods out on a sheet pan or platter, then wrap well or store in a sealed container to keep air out.
To your health!
Leyla Muedin, MS, RD, CDN
