How Long Can Cooked Food Stay In The Refrigerator?

Certainly! Here’s a practical and informative article based on the topic **”How Long Can Cooked Food Stay in the Refrigerator?”**:

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### 🧊 How Long Can Cooked Food Stay in the Refrigerator? Here’s What You Need to Know

We’ve all done it: cooked a big meal, packed away the leftovers, and then — days later — opened the fridge wondering, *“Is this still safe to eat?”* Understanding how long cooked food can safely stay in the refrigerator is essential not only for food quality but for your health.

Let’s break down the general rules, safe storage practices, and when it’s time to toss those leftovers.

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### 🕒 The General Rule: 3 to 4 Days

According to the **U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)**, most cooked foods should be **eaten within 3 to 4 days** when stored properly in the refrigerator at **40°F (4°C)** or below.

This applies to:

* Cooked meat and poultry
* Casseroles
* Pasta dishes
* Soups and stews
* Cooked vegetables
* Rice and grains

After the 4-day mark, the risk of bacterial growth (especially from organisms like *Listeria* and *Salmonella*) increases significantly, even if the food still looks and smells okay.

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