As America approaches its 250th anniversary of independence, families will be packing up picnic trays, grill platters and dessert tables and facing the question of how to safely dispose of leftovers in the scorching summer heat.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture warns that improper storage of perishable foods can quickly lead to food poisoning because bacteria grow in warm environments.
Follow the 2-hour rule
Perishable foods should not be left out for more than 2 hours, and if temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, they should not be left out for more than 1 hour.
Food left in the “danger zone,” between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, can quickly promote the growth of harmful bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli and listeria.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours (1 hour if above 90 degrees F).
- Throw away food that has been left out for too long
- Do not judge safety by appearance or smell.
Keep leftover food safe
Rapid cooling is important to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use small, shallow containers for quick cooling.
- Immediately refrigerate or freeze.
- Dated container label
- Store leftovers refrigerated below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Large containers of food, such as potato salad, baked beans, or grilled meats, should be divided into smaller portions before storing.
Know how long you should keep it
Even if you put it in the refrigerator, leftover food won’t keep indefinitely.
- Consume refrigerated leftovers within 4 days.
- Freeze for longer storage if needed.
- Frozen foods are safe, but their quality deteriorates over time.
Reheat to safe temperature
Proper reheating will destroy any surviving bacteria.
- Heat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Boil soups, sauces and gravies.
- Stir and rotate food in the microwave to avoid cold spots.
- Do not use slow cooker for reheating.
Prevent cross-contamination
Food safety hazards may persist even after cooking if food is stored improperly.
- Store raw meat separately from ready-to-eat food.
- Use clean tools and surfaces after handling raw food.
- Store leftover food in sealed containers
Where to Get Help
Consumers with questions may call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or visit Ask.usda.gov.
By following basic safety precautions, Americans can extend their celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary without experiencing unwanted food poisoning.
