Tag: Reheated rice syndrome

According to a 2017 study, reheating cooked and cooled parboiled rice can significantly lower the postprandial glycemic response, a key health benefit. But is it healthier to eat reheated rice in all cases, or does it pose a risk? This article explores both the potential benefits and the serious food safety precautions you must take.

While raw and undercooked poultry carries a high risk of causing food poisoning from bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, rice can also be a culprit if not handled properly, though it is not the number one cause. This issue with rice stems from a naturally occurring bacterium called *Bacillus cereus*, which can survive cooking and multiply if cooked rice is left at room temperature.

Over 63,000 cases of foodborne illness in the US each year are linked to a bacteria found in rice, a statistic that underscores the importance of proper food handling. The primary bacteria of concern is *Bacillus cereus*, whose spores can survive cooking and multiply rapidly when rice is left at room temperature. This can lead to a condition colloquially known as "fried rice syndrome.".

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), *Bacillus cereus* bacteria is a common cause of foodborne illness often associated with leftover rice that has been stored improperly. While it is a widespread concern, most people are unaware of the specific risks involved with reheated rice.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), improper food handling is a leading cause of foodborne illness, and cooked rice left out overnight is a surprisingly common culprit. This issue, often called "fried rice syndrome," is caused by a specific bacteria that can make you sick, even after reheating. So, is rice ok to eat overnight, and how can you protect yourself?