HOW LONG DO LEFTOVERS LAST?

This article examines how long it’s safe to eat leftovers, including how to tell whether a food has spoiled.

Those at higher risk

Pathogens can grow in all kinds of foods and put you at risk of food poisoning. Those who are pregnant or have weakened immune systems should be especially careful.

Risks of eating spoiled food

Leftovers are especially at risk of these pathogens, as their spores float freely in the air and land on food. This allows for the development of mold, which can produce mycotoxins that may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a combination of these symptoms.

Tips for proper storage

Storing leftovers properly can extend their shelf life and prevent you from getting sick. Good practices include prompt refrigeration, labeling, and reheating foods to at least 165°F (74°C) when you’re ready to eat them.

For online coaching click here

How to tell whether food has gone bad

First, look at your leftovers and note any changes in texture or appearance. If you see mold, don’t smell the food — toss it. Food that smells rancid or tastes strange should be trashed.

Restaurant vs. home-cooked meals

Some leftovers are riskier to store than others and won’t keep as long in the fridge. When in doubt, toss leftovers within 3 days. Restaurant leftovers with raw fish or veggies should be consumed within 24 hours.

Types of leftover foods

How long foods stay safe depends on a few factors, including safe preparation, proper storage, and the type of food.

Higher risk foods

Foods that carry a higher risk of food poisoning are those that are higher in protein and moisture content, two characteristics that allow certain microbes to grow. Meat and poultry, Shellfish, eggs, soups, and stews. One exception to this rule described above is rice, which can carry spores of Bacillus cereus. This bacterium produces toxins that can cause foodborne illness. Store and cool rice within 1 hour of cooking it, and consume it within 3 days.

Medium risk foods

Cooked pasta and grains like barley and quinoa will keep for up to 3 days when properly stored. If you freeze these after cooking them, they’ll generally last 3 months before they start to lose their freshness. Desserts and sweets usually last about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Lower risk foods

Thoroughly washed and cut fresh fruit will generally keep for about 3–5 days before it starts to lose its freshness. When cooked, leftover vegetables stored in an airtight container will usually keep up to 3–7 days in the refrigerator. Cooked canned vegetables like beans or other legumes generally last 7–10 days with proper storage. Homemade bread can last about 3 days at room temperature, while store-bought bread will be safe to eat for about 5–7 days — unless you see mold. Moldy bread should never be eaten.

How often do you check the leftovers in your refrigerator?

For the full article click here 

Related Articles

Responses