How to Store Leftovers

Handling your leftover lunch or dinner safely helps prevent foodborne illness (otherwise known as diarrhea and a tummy ache). Here's what to do with that half-eaten sandwich or leftover casserole.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Aluminum Foil
• Plastic Wrap
• Aluminum Foil
• Antibacterial Soaps
• Plastic Storage Containers
• Refrigerator Thermometers
• Plastic Wrap

1. Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before and after handling leftovers.

2. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of the time they were prepared.

3. Cool food in the refrigerator instead of on the counter.

4. Divide large amounts of leftovers between several clean, shallow storage containers.

5. Make sure storage container lids seal tightly, or cover them with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

6. Place storage containers at least 2 inches apart in the refrigerator - this allows cold air to circulate.

7. Use leftovers containing meat within three days, other foods within five days.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a refrigerator thermometer to make sure your fridge stays between 35 and 40 degrees F.
• Small portions of leftovers cool down faster.
• It is fine to put hot food in the fridge.
• Remember to get restaurant doggie bags in the fridge within 2 hours of preparation, too.
• Bacteria grows most easily between 40 and 140 degrees F, so keep hot food hot and cold food cold.

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on 11/22/2005 It is best to use an ice bath or shallow pans to cool food rather than to risk heating the fridge and other items with hot food. "Hot foods hot & cold foods cold" is a long standing motto in the food industry.

on 11/22/2005 Foods generally should not be reheated more than twice due to bacteria growth. Never store cooked or ready made food below raw meats as blood could contaminate other items.

on 11/22/2005 Food should never stay in the danger zone (40 to 140 degrees) for more than 4 hours total time...Prep to completion!
When in doubt throw it out!!!