How long do leftovers last & how should you store them?

Most leftovers can be stored safely in the refrigerator for about three to four days, according to the Mayo Clinic.

This guideline includes:

• Most cooked meats and poultry
• Cooked vegetables and soups
• Leftover pizza
• Cold salads

Raw poultry or sausage should only spend one to two days in the refrigerator. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also recommends any packaged food be thrown out after seven days.

Glass and plastic food storage containers are both popular options for keeping leftovers fresh.

Glass containers may come with a few added benefits, such as:

• Increased durability
• Greater sustainability/better for the planet
• Increased heat resistance

Both types of containers will help food stay fresh and are safe to use; however, experts say if you’re using plastic containers, it’s important to choose containers that are free of phthalates and the chemical BPA.

Sustainability is also an important factor to consider. About half of plastics produced are designed to be used only once, and single-use plastics, like traditional sandwich bags and other disposable food storage options, contribute to pollution in waterways and landfills.

1. Le Parfait Glass Storage and Canning Jars

Store soups, sauces, jams, and pickled foods in these durable and beautiful jars made from all-natural materials.

Le Parfait jars are food safe, heat safe, leak proof, and 100% recyclable. Many members also use them to conveniently store dry pantry items, like pasta, beans, and baking supplies.

2. Grove Co. Reusable Bag Variety Pack

These Grove member favorites are made of durable, food-safe, reusable, phthalate-free, and bpa-free plastic.

They come in three convenient sizes: snack, sandwich, and storage size. And, since they’re freezer safe, leakproof, and dishwasher safe, they’re an ideal choice for storing leftovers while reducing single-use plastics and food waste.

3. Bee’s Wrap XXL Roll Wrap

Replace single-use plastic wrap with this natural and reusable alternative. Bee’s Wrap is made of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified cotton, beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin and produced using renewable energy.

It’s BPA-free, completely reusable, and can be custom cut to fit fresh vegetables, cheeses, sandwiches, or over the tops of containers.

4. U-Konserve To-Go Medium Container

This stainless steel food container is BPA-free, lead-free, phthalate-free, and plastic-free. And, at 30-ounces, it’s big enough for takeout, salads, and other larger food items.

The light stainless steel is safe for both the refrigerator and the dishwasher, plus other U-Konserve containers come in a range of sizes and have tare weights so they’re ideal companions for bulk shopping.

5. Stasher Reusable Stand-Up Mega Bag

Looking for a reusable storage option for larger items, like lettuce, fresh meats, and bulk produce? The Mega Bag by Stasher is a reusable, 100% food-grade silicone option that’s safe for microwaves, freezers, and in the dishwasher.

Grove members love its stand-up design that makes it ideal for holding liquids and other items without toppling over. Stasher offers other silicone bags in a variety of sizes as well.