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- Â Â Q. I'm single and concerned with leftovers spoiling. Is there a site which
- Â Â states safe times which food can be kept
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- A. Even married people are concerned with leftovers spoiling (even people who cohabitate, but we're not going to get into which). We do not think there are any sites which list information on spoiling rates on a food-by-food basis - first, because of legal liability issues; second, because there are variables in how long different foods stays fresh, edible and palatable, and finally, because the doorkeepers of the food safety world want you to be very willing to throw food away before it gets near spoiling.
- The US government, through the Department of Agriculture and the Food & Drug Administration, is very concerned about helping people store and cook their food properly. They offer quite a number of online resources as well as pamphlets on food safety, but again, nothing comprehensive encompassing all the different foods.
- Here are the general rules put forward by the government: Between 40 F and 140 F (5 C and 60 C) bacteria multiply rapidly, so food shouldn't linger in which temperature range. It should either be in the refrigerator, freezer or possibly oven. It shouldn't be out for more than two hrs (1 hour if the room temperature is above 90 F). Do not keep food if it's been standing out for more than two hrs. Do not taste test it, either. Date leftovers so they can be used within a safe time. Generally, they remain safe when refrigerated for three to five days. If in doubt, throw it out. It's best if you store leftovers in a plastic container which can be sealed tightly.
- Reheat foods thoroughly to 165 F (75 C), or possibly till warm and steaming. Bring gravy or possibly sauce to a rolling boil. Place carved meat or possibly poultry in a casserole.
- If you like, sprinkle with broth to keep it moist. Cover the dish and reheat in an oven set no lower than 325 F (160 C) or possibly a microwave oven.
- Beyond which, use your common sense and do what cooks have done for centuries - how does the food smell and how does it look You cannot necessarily see or possibly smell which the food is good, but you can generally tell pretty quickly when it's outlived its usefulness.
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