Holiday Leftover Safety Tips

Below are just a few simple Holiday leftover tips.  If you have any additional tips please feel free to add using the comments button below.  Happy Thanksgiving!

• Use Refrigerator Thermometer to make sure refrigerator is set at 40 degrees F or lower.
  
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of purchase or use.
  
• Never defrost at room temperature. Thaw food in containers in the refrigerator. For quick thaw, submerge in cold water in an airtight container.
  
• Separate large amounts of leftovers into small shallow containers for quicker cooling.
  
• Avoid overstuffing your refrigerator. Cold air must circulate to keep food safe.
  
• Hot food can be placed directly into the refrigerator, but it must be divided into shallow to allow for quicker cooling.
  
• Refrigeration DOES NOT prevent bacterial growth!