Holiday leftovers are often just as cherished as the main meal itself, but they must be handled with care to avoid foodborne illness. The USDA recommends refrigerating leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Follow these tips to safely store and reheat leftovers:
Divide leftovers into small, shallow containers for quick cooling in the refrigerator. Avoid leaving large dishes of food at room temperature.
Consume refrigerated leftovers within four days. If you plan to keep them longer, freeze them, where they’ll remain safe indefinitely but maintain the best quality for two to six months.
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before eating. Use a food thermometer to ensure even reheating, especially in the microwave. Soups, gravies and sauces should be brought to a rolling boil.
Expert support
For last-minute food safety questions, the USDA’s Meat and Poultry Hotline is available at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) and through live chat at ask.usda.gov. The hotline is even open on Christmas Day to assist holiday cooks.
By practicing proper food safety, families can enjoy their holiday feasts with confidence, keeping their celebrations free from foodborne illness.
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