So you buy some Chinese takeout and still have plenty for tomorrow, but don't think you can just toss it in your fridge and expect it to be edible days later.
Michele Butler with Vangos Restaurant said the best way to extend the life of those leftovers is by freezing them. "What happens with people is that they don't have proper temperature for food, and if it doesn't get cooled down immediately, that's when bacteria has a chance to develop after a period of time. If it's something that you're not going to use for a while, freeze it, then pull it back out. Most things, short of salad, are freezable; just wrap them up well, then pull them back out," said Butler.
You need to make sure your refrigerator's temperature is set at the right level. For example, your foods will last longer if it's at a cooler setting. Ideally it should be at 41 degrees, and your food can last up to seven days. If the temperature is higher than 41, it can last 5 days. After that it needs to be tossed out.
Using tight bowls and Ziploc bags can help prevent your food from spoiling.
Always freeze your foods, but you may also want to set a maximum time frame to consumer it. "Three to five days, depending on what it is, and when you cooked it, also when it expires...I've never got sick, so I guess it's okay!" said Tracy Liberty.
Patrick Jacuzzo with the health department says to avoid getting bacteria in leftovers, reheat them at the right temperature. "Bacterial growth during cooling and heating of hot products--so if you're reheating leftovers, it should be reheated at 165 degrees on the stovetop prior to consumption," said Jacuzzo.
Experts suggest, when in doubt, just throw it out.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWLUC