Leftovers: When to Savor and When to Toss

With Thanksgiving last week, this is a time when I must address the aftermath: leftovers.

While I am not a big leftovers fan, Thanksgiving and the holiday meals are a notable exception for a couple of reasons: we are often preparing for a “crowd,” or more than the “usual” number of people, and some people look forward to those leftovers. And this year, my Thanksgiving plans went from expecting eight adults to just four when one person in the family got a viral infection just days before, and other family members could not risk getting sick, too. So, I found my fridge filled with many extra vegetables and leftover turkey.

I am standing in front of the fridge, knowing it is time to let some of those items go, but also thinking I could stretch it another day or two. But no, I can’t.

Why the Rush to Finish Leftovers?

Now, why is there an urgency to polish off those leftovers quickly? The culprit here is the risk of foodborne illness. Even when packed up after dinner and properly stored, going too long brings bacteria we do not want.

Potential Foodborne Illness and Symptoms

What most people call “food poisoning” foodborne illnesses can range from mild discomfort to severe complications. Some people will also think it is a “stomach bug” or “the flu,” but it is likely Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. You can call it what you want – but no one likes these symptoms, especially if you want to get things done this hectic time of year.

Who's at Risk?

While everyone can get a foodborne illness, and most “healthy adults” may have discomfort associated with the above symptoms, it can get serious among certain more susceptible groups. Those who are most susceptible include young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. Remembering them when deciding whether to eat or toss those leftovers is crucial. You may think you are willing to risk it but don’t put others at risk.

When is it Safe?

Now, as you may read this, it is undoubtedly time to move those Thanksgiving leftovers to the trash or give them to the farm animals; let’s keep in mind there are likely a few more holiday gatherings on the calendar. Leftovers can be safe if appropriately stored for a few days. Refrigerate cooked dishes within two hours of serving, and make sure your fridge is set to a cool 40°F or below. This will help slow down the growth of any bacteria and keep your leftovers safer.

When to Toss: A Handy Guide

Turkey: Good for 3-4 days in the fridge. If it's been longer, it's time to say goodbye. (If you froze it right away, then good for 4-6 months, but if you didn’t, don’t freeze it now.)
Stuffing: Similarly, 3-4 days is the golden window – and reheat to >165 degrees.
Mashed Potatoes and any Sweet Potato Casserole: They'll last about 2-3 days.
Gravy: Use it within 1-2 days to be on the safe side.
Cranberry Sauce: Enjoy within 10-14 days. (The higher sugar content allows it to be safer a bit longer)

Invisible Mold: The Hidden Culprit

Something many people don’t know about is invisible mold. Invisible mold refers to those sneaky spores that can develop on food, especially in humid conditions. Unlike the fuzzy green or white patches we typically associate with mold, these microscopic organisms can proliferate without leaving a visible trace. The danger lies in this – you might not see it, but it could still be present. So, if you see the mold, the whole thing should go – because there is likely invisible mold, too.

Why is it Harmful?

Mold produces mycotoxins, toxic substances that can have adverse health effects when ingested. Even if you can't see the mold on your leftovers, these mycotoxins may be present. Consuming food contaminated with mycotoxins can lead to a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and, in some cases, more severe health issues. So, it is still a form of foodborne illness.

Beyond Thanksgiving: Other Celebrations and Holidays

With various celebrations and holidays lined up in the next 4-5 weeks, it's essential to be mindful of leftovers beyond Thanksgiving. The same rules apply whether it's a group dinner, a holiday party, or a family gathering. Keep an eye on the clock (within two hours) and calendar (within 3-4 days), practice safe storage, and be vigilant about when to toss.

Leftovers can be a memorable extension of holiday celebrations, but they can be a positive or negative memory. Don’t let those bugs get to your gut - follow these guidelines, and you'll hopefully ensure the safety and health of yourself and your family.