How to Store Leftovers

Tips:
It is fine to put hot food in the fridge.

Use a refrigerator thermometer to make sure your fridge stays between 35 and 40 degrees F.

Remember to get restaurant doggie bags in the fridge within 2 hours of preparation, too.

Small portions of leftovers cool down faster.

Warnings:
Bacteria grows most easily between 40 and 140 degrees F, so keep hot food hot and cold food cold.

Steps:
1. Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before and after handling leftovers.

2. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of the time they were prepared.

3. Cool food in the refrigerator instead of on the counter.

4. Divide large amounts of leftovers between several clean, shallow storage containers.

5. Make sure storage container lids seal tightly, or cover them with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

6. Place storage containers at least 2 inches apart in the refrigerator - this allows cold air to circulate.

7. Use leftovers containing meat within three days, other foods within five days.


Debbie