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Whether it is the leftovers of a great healthy sandwich you plan on eating tomorrow or you’re wondering how long something can be stored until it becomes indigestible, we’ve got to understand proper storage techniques for all of those leftovers. We need to make sure they are safe for consumption while also retaining their freshness and flavor. So, what are the essentials for mastering this? Let’s show you some of the most simple approaches to ensure thaThe Keys to Storing Leftovers Safelyt, whether you’re getting your food ready for the holiday season or you’re wondering how long that piece of meat is actually good for, you know what to do!

Knowing the Optimum Refrigerator Temperature

The optimum temperature is approximately 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C), which can keep perishable foods fresh for a longer period of time. A refrigerator thermometer is an essential tool to ensure that your appliances consistently maintain these perfect conditions. It’s also worth having an insight into the best ways to keep your refrigerator functioning at its optimum. Sometimes our fridge can give up the ghost sooner than we think, but this could be down to a number of issues we could fix ourselves. For example, you may need to learn how to replace the water filter in your fridge, which can make a big difference to its overall functionality. But before we start to look at the things that could cause problems, it’s always about recognizing where our fridge can function at its optimum.

Cooling Foods Quickly

Bacteria can thrive in temperatures between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), and therefore, we need to minimize that bacterial growth, especially in meat, dairy, and poultry. When we want to prolong the shelf life of certain foods but need to cool them quickly, we should work at dividing the portions into smaller and shallower containers, as this will speed up the cooling process and prevent any illnesses through our food.

Using Smart Storage Containers

When attempting to preserve leftovers, the way we store our food is just as important. We should always opt for glass or plastic containers and ensure that we find the most airtight ones on the market. When air hits food, the leftovers can dry out and, more importantly, lose their flavor. We should also be savvy when it comes to food storage, especially for items going into the freezer. Labels can help us differentiate between different dishes, and using food bags can create more space.

Know What We Can and Cannot Refrigerate

While many foods benefit from time in the refrigerator, some are better off stored away from it. For example, vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and onions fare better in a cool, dry pantry. Some people still refrigerate bread; however, it can become stale in a cold environment.

The keys to storing leftovers are many. By following these guidelines, you can maximize the freshness and safety of your leftovers. They can also play a bigger part in future meals while helping you understand the importance of sustainability and mindfulness when it comes to food consumption.

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This is a contributed post