Sometimes we order extra food or make extra dish, which become leftovers. So it become essential to store the leftovers. But, How long do leftovers remain safe to eat?
Unfortunately, determining how long leftovers stay fresh is a difficult question to answer because it is dependent on a number of variables.
According to USDA, three to four days of leftovers are safe to eat, if they are properly stored & refrigerated.
Because of the heightened risk of dangerous germs in dairy, eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and shellfish, these items should be consumed earlier in the day than usual.
Fruits and vegetables, bread, baked goods, canned foods, syrups, and vinegars are all low-risk foods that can be eaten safely in three to four days.
The shelf life of restaurant leftovers is shorter. In general, people should store their leftovers in the refrigerator and eat them within three to four days after receiving them.
Even though your leftovers are perfectly edible, they could still be a source of food-borne illness, so keep an eye on how long they've been in the fridge.
Quickly refrigerate leftovers for optimal quality. Within two hours of cooking, or one hour if the ambient temperature is 90° F or higher.
2) To prevent bacteria from growing and surviving, don't let foods sit in the "danger zone" of 40°F to 140°F.
3) Airtight containers help leftovers keep longer. Also, reheat leftovers to 165° F to destroy bacteria.