How to Preserve Leftovers Longer

Leftovers are common in American families, especially after big holidays. To eat leftovers safely, proper storage and handling is needed to preserve them longer. Try these tips to preserve your leftovers longer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Make sure you have enough room in your refrigerator for all your leftovers. Pull everything out you don't need and that won't spoil if stored on the counter on in your pantry. Consider pulling shelves out of your fridge if you have to. However, don't stuff the refrigerator too full, since it will prevent the cool air from circulating in the fridge.
2. Store leftovers in shallow, small containers. Air causes the leftovers to start changing, so decrease the amount of air around the leftovers by storing them properly. Containers with a lid that can be sealed are better than putting plastic wrap over a container. Avoid storing vegetables and sauces in the cans they came in. In addition, keep the leftovers covered at all times.
3. Know that you mustn't allow food to sit out longer than two hours. Start the clock when the item is done cooking, not when you're done eating it. It will turn more quickly if it sits out. Use meat products within 3 or 4 days and starches (like potatoes) within 5. After that, you may get sick from the food.
4. Reheat products only once. This means reheating only the food that you're going to eat—not the whole leftover.
5. Freeze the leftovers. Wrap the item carefully in plastic or store in a Tupperware container to prevent freezer burn. Don't forget to write what the leftover is and the date on the container. Use frozen leftovers within a month.

Tips & Warnings

• Never mix fresh foods with reheated foods.
• When in doubt, throw it out.