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Leftovers

Last Updated: June 30, 2011

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LEFTOVERS

Leftovers are a convenient meal choice but can pose a food safety risk.

Most leftovers are safe to eat two to three days after they were originally prepared but only if they were stored and reheated properly.

Follow these simple guidelines for handling leftovers:

  • Discard food that has been sitting out for more than two hours
  • Store leftovers in shallow containers
  • Separate different types of food (e.g. store turkey and stuffing in separate containers)
  • Immediately put in the refrigerator or freezer.
  • Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating and bring any liquids to a rolling boil.

For more information about leftover safety visit the following site: Keep Food Safe: Food Safety Basics

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