As a food safety expert, I always emphasize the importance of proper food storage to prevent foodborne illnesses. When it comes to Chinese food, the same principles apply.

Refrigerating leftovers promptly is crucial. According to the USDA, perishable food should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Once you get your Chinese food home, if it's not going to be consumed immediately, you should refrigerate it within that time frame.

In the fridge, cooked Chinese food can last for 3 to 4 days. However, the quality of the food may deteriorate after a couple of days, so it's best to consume it within 2 days for optimal taste and safety.

If you want to extend the life of your leftovers, you can freeze them. Cooked Chinese food can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

Remember, when reheating, it's important to ensure the food is heated evenly to kill any bacteria that may have survived the refrigeration or freezing process.

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Leftovers can be kept for three to four days in the refrigerator. Be sure to eat them within that time. After that, the risk of food poisoning increases. If you don't think you'll be able to eat leftovers within four days, freeze them immediately.read more >>