How long can leftovers stay in the fridge?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to eat that leftover takeout, but you can't remember if it's from Monday or last Monday.

Leftovers can grow germs without smelling bad.

Causes & evidence

Food safety guidance says leftovers are generally good for 3 to 4 days refrigerated. See food poisoning.

What to do

1. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
2. Eat within 3 to 4 days.
3. Reheat to 165°F.
4. When in doubt, throw it out.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: using the smell test as the safety test. Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change smell or look. Label containers with dates, refrigerate leftovers promptly, and reheat to a safe temperature. Divide big batches into shallow containers so they cool quickly. Keep the fridge at 40°F or below and check with a fridge thermometer. When in doubt, throw it out. See food storage times. A quick habit: write the date on a piece of tape on every container.

Speed Man tip: Label containers with dates.

Wrap-up: 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat to 165°F. When in doubt, throw it out.