Thanksgiving Leftovers Safety

Let’s face it, the only thing better than Thanksgiving’s turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and veggies, is the leftovers the next day (sometimes enough to last us through the week!).

While leftovers are a delicious holiday tradition, it is important to store and handle them properly to avoid contamination. Here are a few tips for healthy Thanksgiving leftovers:

1. It is unsafe to store food in large amounts that can't cool quickly enough. Immediately after your meal, remove stuffing from the turkey cavity and refrigerate stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and other vegetables in separate shallow containers for quick cooling in the refrigerator.
2. Refrigerate or freeze perishables, prepared foods and leftovers as soon as possible after serving.
3. Do not over-pack the refrigerator. Cool air should circulate around the containers to keep food safe. Cut turkey into thin slices and store separately from stuffing, gravy, and vegetables in shallow containers.
4. Use refrigerated leftover turkey and stuffing within three days; gravy within one to two days.
5. Do not cross-contaminate. Never place cooked food in a container that previously held raw meat, poultry or seafood.
6. Check the refrigeration temperature. It is important to keep the fridge at 34 to 40° F degrees at all times.
7. Reheat any leftovers thoroughly to a temperature of 165 ° F or until hot and steaming.

Rubbermaid food storage containers are ideal for storing leftovers and eliminating kitchen clutter. They are available in a variety of sizes and feature adjustable capacity. Most Rubbermaid food storage containers are backed by a lifetime warranty and are safe for use in the microwave, freezer or dishwasher.

And what happens when you would like to send your guests home with food? Pick up Rubbermaid TakeAlongs food storage containers. Available in several shapes and sizes, you will find the perfect fit for every food, and every guest.