Holiday food safety: A guide to Thanksgiving leftovers
If you are preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner this year, you will probably have a lot of leftovers.
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Now that Thanksgiving has passed, the family gatherings, the delicious feasts and the familiar aromas are behind us. As leftovers fill the fridge and the holiday chaos winds down, many of us are left wondering how long we can safely enjoy those tasty remnants of the feast.
If you’re wondering how to safely enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers, here’s what you need to know to keep your food both delicious and safe.
How long is it safe to eat Thanksgiving leftovers?
Thanksgiving leftovers are safe to eat within three to four days if stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F, according to guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. However, the storage time varies by food item:
Cooked turkey: 3 to 4 daysCooked ham: 3 to 4 daysStuffing and gravy: 1 to 2 daysCasseroles and cooked vegetables: 3 to 4 daysCranberry sauce: Up to 7 days
To keep your leftovers safe, be sure to store them within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Use shallow containers to help food cool quickly, and always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
By Monday, make sure to either eat, freeze, or toss any remaining leftovers.
Is it OK to freeze leftovers after they’ve been in the refrigerator?
If you need more time to enjoy your leftovers, freezing them is a great option. Most items can last two to six months in the freezer.
You can freeze leftovers up to three days after they’ve been stored in the fridge. While freezing may slightly affect the quality, it helps ensure your food stays safe to eat for an extended period. For best quality, consume frozen leftovers within two to six months, and store them in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
Creative ways to use your leftovers
The post-Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich is nearly as iconic as the holiday feast itself. Packed with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a slather of gravy or mayo, this sandwich takes all the best elements of the Thanksgiving meal and brings them together in a convenient, hand-held form.
USA TODAY has a recipe for the perfect leftovers sandwich.
Other ideas include: