How long can leftovers be safely stored in the refrigerator?

Leftovers can safely be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This guideline helps to minimize the risk of foodborne illness as over time, the likelihood of harmful bacteria growing on the food increases. After this timeframe, even if the food looks and smells fine, it may not be safe to eat because bacteria that can cause food poisoning can proliferate in leftovers that are stored too long.

This 3 to 4 day rule is backed by food safety guidelines from reputable sources such as the USDA and serves as a practical benchmark for managing food safety in a home or restaurant setting. Keeping leftovers within this timeframe allows for safe consumption while ensuring that the quality and taste of the food are also maintained. Proper labeling and tracking of food storage dates can help in adhering to this guideline and minimizing waste.