Keeping your food out of the “danger zone” is key.
Are the leftovers ready for the fridge?
Putting hot food in the refrigerator isnt a great idea for food safety.
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Here’s why you should let your food chill out for a bit (but not too long!)
to keep your leftovers fresh and bacteria-free for days to come.
Should You Let Food Cool Before Refrigerating It?
Yes, you should definitely let food cool off before refrigerating it.
However, youll want to do it in a safe and time-sensitive way to avoid spoilage.
Potentially dangerous bacteria grow best at these temperatures, hence the name.
It could also heat up the foods near it in the refrigerator.
How to Cool Hot Foods Quickly?
Or, if that sounds too scientific,basic kitchen knowledgewill sufficeand yes, thats technically physics!
When youre hot, you want space, not to be in a cluster of other bodies.
Food is the same way.
Once at room temperature, it is safe to put into the refrigerator to continue that cooling process.
How Long Can Hot Food Stay Out For?
Food should not sit out at room temperature for longer thantwo hours, Crabstree says.
The FDA recommends that food be cooled in a safeprocessand then refrigerated or frozen.
