Holiday leftovers are often just as cherished as the main meal itself, but they must be handled with care to avoid foodborne illness. The USDA recommends refrigerating leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

Follow these tips to safely store and reheat leftovers:

Expert support

For last-minute food safety questions, the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline is available at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) and through live chat at ask.usda.gov. The hotline is even open on Christmas Day to assist holiday cooks.

By practicing proper food safety, families can enjoy their holiday feasts with confidence, keeping their celebrations free from foodborne illness.