Tag: Cold food risks

According to the Food Standards Agency, leftover food can be eaten cold as long as it has been cooked properly and stored in the fridge within two hours. This fact addresses a common concern and is a starting point for exploring the question: is it unhealthy to eat food cold? The answer is more nuanced than a simple 'yes' or 'no', involving several factors from digestion to bacterial growth.

According to the USDA, bacteria can multiply rapidly in the 'temperature danger zone' between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), making mishandled cold leftovers a food safety risk. This fact is one of several important reasons why careful consideration is needed before consuming chilled meals.