Thanksgiving is one holiday where the focus is almost entirely on eating.  For most, the foods are based on tradition – it wouldn’t be thanksgiving without  your aunt’s ambrosia salad or grandma’s stuffing.  Another tradition is eating all the delicious leftovers.  For many, that’s the best part.  The University of California Cooperative Extension wants to be sure your leftovers are safe to eat. rosemary Carter has some helpful tips.
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(Don’t leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.)

Another recommendation is to cool food rapidly.
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Carter says to wrap them in airtight packaging and refrigerate 3-4 days or freeze 3-4 months. When reheating food be sure it gets to 165 degrees in order to prevent bacteria from growing.

Thawing leftovers also requires some thought.
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Refreezing Previously Frozen Leftovers is safe as long as they have been heated to 165°F prior to refreezing.  If a large container of food has been defrosted in the refrigerator, it is safe to remove the needed portion and refreeze the remainder of thawed leftovers without heating.

For more food safety information, visit University of California Cooperative Extension website, or call (530) 889-7350.