Leftovers & Food Safety · FAQ

Why can cooked rice become dangerous if kept too long in the fridge?

Reviewed 2026-07-24

Cooked rice can contain heat-resistant Bacillus cereus spores. Cool it rapidly in shallow containers, refrigerate within two hours (one hour above 90°F/32°C), and use within four days. Reheating may not destroy toxin already formed during improper holding.

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