With Thanksgiving festivities just around the corner, most of us will be left with a bounty of leftovers just waiting to be enjoyed again. But before you dig in, food safety experts from North Carolina State University’s Safe Plates program have a few tips to ensure you’re storing, reheating, and enjoying your leftovers safely. Proper handling and storage can prevent food borne illnesses, making sure you and your loved ones stay healthy all weekend long.

Traditional Homemade Turkey Thanksgiving Dinner with Mashed Potatoes, Stuffing, and Corn

Safe Handling and Storage

1. The Two-Hour Rule: After a big meal, it’s tempting to relax and let the food sit on the table. But according to Safe Plates, perishable items should be refrigerated within two hours to prevent bacteria from growing. The clock starts ticking the moment food is set out, so make sure you wrap up leftovers quickly. If temperatures are above 90°F, as in a warm kitchen or during outdoor gatherings, aim for one hour.
2. Store in Small Containers: Portion your leftovers into shallow, airtight containers. Smaller containers allow leftovers to cool more quickly, reducing the risk of bacteria growth. For best results, label each container with the date to keep track of how long each item has been stored.
3. Refrigerate and Freeze Properly: Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for two to six months, depending on the food. Make sure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower, while the freezer should be at 0°F (-18°C).

Safe Reheating

1. Reheat to the Right Temperature: Safe Plates advises reheating leftovers to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Use a food thermometer to ensure food reaches this temperature, as it will effectively kill any bacteria that may have developed during storage.
2. Avoid Partial Reheating: When using a microwave, stir food halfway through to ensure even heating, as microwaves often leave cold spots where bacteria can survive. Cover dishes with a microwave-safe lid to help food reheat evenly and to trap moisture.
3. Limit Reheating Cycles: Only reheat leftovers once. Repeated reheating can degrade food quality and increase the risk of foodborne illness. If there are still leftovers after reheating, it’s safest to discard them.

Foods to Watch Out For

Not all leftovers are created equal. Some items are more prone to bacterial growth than others, and NCSU Safe Plates recommends extra caution with:

• Gravies and Sauces: These should be brought to a rolling boil when reheated. Their higher moisture content makes them a potential hotspot for bacterial growth.
• Stuffing and Casseroles: Since these contain mixed ingredients, they need to be reheated carefully. Ensure they reach 165°F throughout before eating

All leftovers should be re-heated to 165 degrees.

Thanksgiving Food Safety Quick Guide

Do’s:

• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
• Use shallow containers for faster cooling.
• Reheat to 165°F and check with a thermometer.

Don’ts:

• Leave leftovers out overnight.
• Reheat food multiple times.
• Eat leftovers past four days if refrigerated.

Thanksgiving leftovers are often just as delicious as the original feast. By following these simple food safety guidelines from NC State’s Safe Plates, you can safely savor every bite and make your Thanksgiving last a little longer.