• Leftover casseroles or covered dishes : If leftovers or perishable items were sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours , they should be disposed of . Wrap leftovers well and store in airtight containers . This helps keep out bacteria as well as retain moisture . Leftovers can be left in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for 3 to 4 months . It is safe to reheat your leftovers without thawing first . All leftovers should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees , measured using a food thermometer . If you are using a microwave , be sure to rotate the food to allow for an even reheating . Microwaves can often leave “ cold spots ” in the food and allow bacteria to survive the reheating process .
• Desserts : While you may be thinking , “ Who has leftover dessert ? That will be the first thing to go ”, you may have been too full from the main course to indulge just yet . However , keep the 2 hour rule in mind before taking that first bite . If the dessert contains any type of egg mixture , such as custard , bacteria can quickly multiply due to the moisture . These items should be refrigerated until ready to use and not left at room temperature longer than 2 hours .
Consider these guidelines to take the guesswork out what is still safe to eat and what needs to be tossed out . That way , you can continue to enjoy celebratory time with friends and family . After all , Easter is the only time of year you can put all your eggs in one basket .
Sources : USDA , Partnership for Food Safety Education , UGA Cooperative Extension Hall County
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