Leftovers: some say it’s better than the actual meal itself. Ross from Friends marvelously turned his into the infamous “moist maker.” But how long are they actually good for?
According to FoodSafety.com, the answer lies in the storage of leftovers and the time left in the refrigerator.
Ideally, leftovers should be stored within two hours of cooking and divided into smaller portions to allow the food to cool quickly and avoid giving bacteria the chance to multiply. While many believe the food needs to be cooled down before storing, that is not the case.
Once the food is in the refrigerator, it can be kept for approximately three to four days – ideally, until the Monday following Thanksgiving.
However, according to a survey posted by Food Safety, 31 percent of participants indicated they would eat leftovers kept longer than four days in the refrigerator. If you store leftovers in the freezer, they should keep their quality for around two to six months. Just ensure that all food is stored in air-tight containers and plastic wrap if needed.
When it comes to consuming the leftovers, experts advise individuals to reheat the turkey and stuffing to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If the turkey texture is slimy or the meat takes on a grayish tint, you know it has already gone bad. Stuffing that looks wet or smells “off” has gone bad. Anything that contains eggs or dairy (pie, mashed potatoes, etc.) should be refrigerated within two hours of serving or sooner. Any signs of mold or the filling separating means the pie should be thrown out.
The one item you can hold on to the longest? Cranberry sauce! Thanks to the high acidity and sugar content, the sauce will last around 10 to 14 days. If you notice a fermented smell, however, that indicates that it is no longer safe to eat.
As with all leftovers, make sure to take a good gander before you gobble!
