Sharing leftovers can feel like a thoughtful, loving gesture, but it may come with hidden health risks if not handled properly.
Improperly stored or reheated leftovers can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, leading to food poisoning.
Even reheated food can harbor toxins from Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and cramps.
Refrigerated leftovers left for too long may develop Listeria, a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially for pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
Clostridium perfringens can thrive in improperly reheated food, leading to stomach cramps and diarrhea.
Starchy foods like rice and pasta are prone to contamination from Bacillus cereus, which can cause foodborne illness if not cooled and stored quickly.
To safely enjoy leftovers, store them in the fridge within two hours, reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and consume them within 3–4 days.