Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, filled with barbecues, picnics, and feasts of grilled burgers, hot dogs, potato salads, and more. As the celebrations wrap up, leftovers can keep the holiday spirit alive—if handled with care. Warm weather increases the risk of foodborne illness, making proper storage and reheating critical.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides key guidelines to ensure your Memorial Day leftovers remain safe and delicious.
Essential food safety tips for leftovers
- Follow the two-hour rule: All perishable foods, from grilled meats to creamy side dishes, must be refrigerated within two hours of cooking or serving. In hot weather above 90 degrees F — common during Memorial Day outdoor gatherings — this window drops to one hour. Foods left out longer enter the “Danger Zone” (40 degrees F to 140 degrees F), where bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli can multiply rapidly. Discard any food, including “doggie bags” sent home with guests, that exceeds this time limit to avoid illness.
- Store in small, shallow containers: Divide leftovers into small, shallow, airtight containers before refrigerating or freezing. This ensures rapid, even cooling, preventing bacterial growth. Large containers, like a whole tray of macaroni salad or a large cut of meat, retain heat and take longer to cool, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. For example, slice or shred leftover brisket or turkey before storing to speed up the cooling process.
- Consume or freeze within four days: Refrigerated leftovers should be eaten within four days—by Friday, May 30, for Memorial Day meals. If you can’t consume them by then, freeze them to preserve safety and quality. While freezing halts most bacterial growth (except for pathogens like Listeria), the USDA recommends consuming frozen leftovers within two to six months for optimal taste and texture. Label containers with the date to track storage time.
- Reheat to safe temperatures: When reheating, ensure leftovers reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F to kill any potential bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check multiple spots, especially for dense dishes like casseroles or thick cuts of meat. In microwaves, arrange food evenly in a microwave-safe glass or ceramic dish, cover with a vented lid or microwave-safe wrap, and add a splash of liquid (like broth or water) to maintain moisture and promote even heating. Stir or rotate food to eliminate cold spots. For sauces, soups, or gravies, bring them to a rolling boil on the stovetop. Avoid slow cookers for reheating, as they may not reach 165 degrees F quickly enough to ensure safety.
- Safe defrosting for frozen leftovers: If you’ve frozen leftovers, thaw them safely before reheating. The USDA recommends three methods: in the refrigerator (ideal for gradual thawing), in cold water (changed every 30 minutes), or in the microwave using the defrost setting. Never thaw food at room temperature, as this allows bacteria to grow.
Additional precautions
Check leftovers for signs of spoilage before eating, such as off odors, unusual textures or mold. When in doubt, throw it out.
Expert resources for food safety questions
For last-minute advice, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854), via email at MPHotline@usda.gov, or through live chat at ask.usda.gov from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. These resources can answer questions about specific dishes or storage concerns, ensuring your holiday leftovers are safe to enjoy.
Enjoy leftovers with confidence
By following these USDA guidelines, you can savor your Memorial Day feast for days to come without risking foodborne illness. Whether it’s a second helping of grilled ribs or a scoop of homemade potato salad, proper storage and reheating practices will keep your holiday delicious and safe. Extend the celebration responsibly and make the most of your Memorial Day spread.
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