How should leftovers be stored for safety?

To ensure the safety and quality of leftovers, it is essential to store them in airtight containers and label them with the date. Using airtight containers prevents air from entering and helps maintain the freshness of the food, while also reducing the risk of contamination from other foods in the refrigerator. Labeling with the date is crucial for food safety because it allows you to track how long the leftovers have been stored. This practice helps you avoid consuming food that is past its safe consumption period, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Storing leftovers in cardboard boxes is not advisable as cardboard is not a food-safe storage material and does not provide a proper seal, making the food more susceptible to spoilage and contamination. Open shelves do not provide an appropriate environment for leftover storage, as they expose the food to air and potential contaminants, leading to quicker spoilage. Similarly, using plastic bags without labels lacks organization and makes it difficult to keep track of the storage time, which can result in consuming unsafe or spoiled food.