While leftovers can make tasty and quick meals, it is vital to reheat them properly to steer clear of food poisoning.
Even though most people know how to reheat their leftovers perfectly, only a few understand the number of times they can reheat their leftovers before facing problems.
I know most of you are asking, "Can you microwave leftovers twice?" The answer to this question is, "YES." However, it is important to note that there are exceptions.
This article will disclose to you what can be microwaved twice and what cannot.
Which Foods Can be Microwaved Twice?
How many times can you get away with reheating your leftovers in a microwave without putting yourself at the risk of food poisoning?
According to Mosley Michael, television presenter and food journalist, you can microwave your leftovers as many times as you like as long as you ensure that every piece of food is steaming hot all the way through.
However, there are exceptions. Mosley's claims were echoed by the Food Safety Information Council's spokesperson, Lydia Buchtmann.
According to Buchtmann, you can reheat your leftovers as many times as you like as long as you are reheating it to 168 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) for at least two minutes.
Food Exceptions:
While some foods reheat nicely and quickly in the microwave, others need a stovetop and some oil to reheat well. And then there are those foods that should never be microwaved twice.
Some of the foods that shouldn't be microwaved twice include eggs, roasted veggies, pasta, stews and soups, rice, and pizza.
These foods should not be reheated in the microwave twice because the more you reheat and cool, the higher the probability of food poisoning.
Rice, on the other hand, contains a heat-resistant pathogen known as Bacillus cereus, which produces a toxin that can survive temperatures of 168 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ensure you reheat until the food steams and is hot throughout. Often, microwaves do not heat evenly.
Thus, it is advisable to take your food out of the microwave halfway through reheating time to give it a thorough stir before returning it to the microwave.
Also, remember always to use a food-safe and microwave-safe container to microwave any food.
Furthermore, leftovers that you want to microwave should not stay in the refrigerator for more than two days.
Also, leftovers taken from the freezer should be eaten within 24 hours. Before heating, they should be appropriately defrosted.
Wrapping Up:
Leftovers are the perfect solution for the time-strapped and the environment-conscious and the budget savvy.
Nevertheless, all the benefits of leftovers are promptly forgotten in the face of undercooked food.
The tips explained on this page are ideal in guiding you on how to reheat leftovers safely and adequately.
