Storing cooked food properly is essential to prevent both foodborne illness and unnecessary waste. Many people save leftovers without being sure how long they remain safe or maintain good quality in the fridge.

This guide breaks down how long various cooked foods can be refrigerated, how to store them correctly, and how to tell when it’s time to throw them out.

How Long Does Cooked Food Last in the Fridge?
Below are general guidelines for storing cooked food in a refrigerator set between 1°C and 5°C: