Khaberni - Primrose Freestone from the University of Leicester warned that some food leftovers kept in the refrigerator could pose a real health hazard, as they might cause food poisoning if not stored correctly.
The microbiology specialist explained that food poisoning is not only caused by undercooked food or unsafe preparation practices but also that improperly stored food leftovers are among the main causes.
Dr. Freestone stated in an article in The Conversation: "Food poisoning results from consuming food contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, fungi, or viruses.. Hence, it is critically important to be cautious when storing food leftovers to avoid harming your health."
She revealed the "high-risk" leftovers that should not be stored in the refrigerator:
Cold pizza
Dr. Freestone cautioned that while cold pizza leftovers are delicious, they can be a source of poisoning due to dried herbs and spices sprinkled on them, which may experience microbial contamination during production or storage. Even if these microbes die during cooking, leaving pizza out of the refrigerator for more than two hours can reactivate them.
Freestone emphasized the need to refrigerate pizza within two hours of buying or cooking it, and not to leave it out longer than that. After placing it in the refrigerator, it can be safely consumed for only two days. After the second day, it is best to dispose of it even if it appears to be fine.
Cooked chicken
Although it is safe compared to raw, cooked chicken quickly spoils once it cools, due to its high moisture and nutrient content. Freestone recommends cooling it and covering any leftovers immediately after the meal and not letting it stay out of the refrigerator for more than two hours.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring there is no blood present as it signals it might not be fully cooked and could potentially be contaminated with germs.
Rice dishes
Dr. Freestone stated that rice dish leftovers, like fried rice, risotto, and burritos, are among the most dangerous foods when stored due to uncooked rice containing heat-resistant bacteria, including Bacillus cereus. These bacteria do not die during cooking, but grow and release deadly toxins if cooked rice is left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours. Hence, it should be cooled promptly after cooking, and consumed within 24 hours if eaten cold.
Canned foods
Leftover canned foods require special care after opening the can, as they must be transferred to a suitable container or well-covered and refrigerated immediately to protect them from airborne germs.
The shelf life varies depending on the type; tomatoes and other highly acidic foods last between five to seven days, whereas meats, fish, vegetables, and pasta should not be kept for more than three days.
The expert concluded her advice by saying: "Leftover food can be safely consumed cold, provided it is refrigerated immediately after cooking, and used within a day or two at most."
