How long are leftovers good for, and is it safe to eat leftovers after a week?
We spoke with a dietitian and an FDA expert.
The FDA Just Banned Red Dye No.
3: The Future of Processed Foods
Is Red Wine Any Healthier for You Than White Wine?
Proffee Is the Hottest New Beverage Trendbut Should You Really Be Adding Protein to Your Coffee?
How long are leftovers good for?
registered dietitian and nationally-recognized food, nutrition, and wellness expert with a private nutrition counseling practice
Be sure to store your food properly, too.
Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container, and your refrigerator should be set no higher than 40F.
But refrigerate within one hour if the temperature where the food has been sitting is above 90F.
This applies to outdoor picnics and barbecues in particular.
Leftovers can bekept frozen for three to four months, says Turney.
Although safe indefinitely, frozen leftovers can lose moisture and flavor when stored for longer times in the freezer.
This, of course, means scraping off the patch doesnt mean youve gotten rid of the mold altogether.
Thats why its so important to handle and store food properlybeforeany of this occurs.
Id also be cautious with ground meat and raw poultry.
registered dietitian and nationally-recognized food, nutrition, and wellness expert with a private nutrition counseling practice
These items should be cooked or frozen within two days of purchase.
If youve frozen your leftovers, getting them up to temperature is step one.
Safe ways to thaw leftovers include the refrigerator, cold water, and the microwave oven, explains Turney.
After thawing, the food should be used within three to four days or can be refrozen.
Foods thawed by the cold water method should always be cooked before refreezing.
Continue to heat leftovers until they reach 165F as measured with a food thermometer, Turney adds.
Foods thawed in the microwave can be refrozen after heating it to this safe temperature.
Its smarter to throw something out than risk getting ill, says Cassetty.
If anything is suspect, dont risk it!
You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content.
Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
