Adapted from The USDA’s “Let’s Keep The Best Part of Thanksgiving Safe”

The year’s biggest meals are just behind us, but delicious leftovers are often one of the best parts of the holiday. 

Keep your favorite leftovers safe by following these food safety steps:
• Remember the Two-Hour Rule: Refrigerate perishable items within two hours of coming out of the oven or refrigerator. After two hours, perishable food enters the "Danger Zone" where bacteria can multiply quickly. Perishable food should be discarded if left out for longer than two hours.
• Use Shallow Containers: After you break down your holiday meal into smaller portions, store leftover food in shallow containers in the refrigerator if used in 4 days, or in the freezer if stored for longer.
• Freeze or Consume Within Four Days: If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze them within a four-day period. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely, though the quality may decrease over time (best quality if eaten within six months).
• Reheat to 165 F: Make sure your reheated leftovers reach 165 F as measured with a food thermometer. Reheat sauces, soups and gravies safely by bringing them to a rolling boil.
• Microwave Food Safely: When reheating in the microwave, cover and rotate the food for even heating. Because microwaves have cold spots, check the internal temperature of the food in several places with a food thermometer after allowing a resting time.

VISIT USDA.GOV FOR MORE FOOD SAFETY TIPS & TRICKS