Proper storage of cooked food is important to prevent both foodborne illness and unnecessary waste. Many people save leftovers without knowing how long they will remain safe or of good quality in the refrigerator.
This guide breaks down how long different cooked foods can be stored in the refrigerator, how to store them properly, and how to know when it's time to throw them away.
How Long Does Cooked Food Last in the Refrigerator?
Below are general guidelines for storing cooked foods in the refrigerator at 1-5°C:
Cooked meats (beef, chicken, pork, turkey): 3-4 days
Cooked fish: 2-3 days
Cooked rice, pasta and legumes: 3-5 days
Soups and stews: 3-4 days
Cooked vegetables: 3-5 days
Pizza or empanadas: 3-4 days
Homemade sauces (e.g. béchamel, tomato-based): 3-4 days
Milk or cream-based desserts (flanes, mousses): 2-3 days
Best practices for storing cooked food in the refrigerator
1. Let it cool down first
Avoid putting hot food directly into the refrigerator.
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Let it cool to room temperature – within two hours of cooking – so it doesn’t raise the overall temperature of the refrigerator, which could affect other stored items.
2. Use airtight containers
