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Why can stale food be harmful?
After food is cooked, the moisture and nutrients present in it create a good environment for bacteria to grow. If food is left at room temperature for more than 2 hours (this time may be less in summer), bacteria can grow rapidly. There are some bacteria which food poisoning Become the reason for. Sometimes food looks and smells fine, but it may contain dangerous tiny germs.
Read more- What happens if you eat stale rice? Know its disadvantages

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What problems can arise from food poisoning?
- stomach pain
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- nausea
- Fever
- Weakness
Let us tell you, its effect can be greater in children, elderly, pregnant women and people with weak immunity.
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Is stale food kept in the fridge safe?
If food is kept in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking, some cooked food can be kept safe for 3–4 days. But it also depends on the type of food and at what temperature it is kept. It is important to heat food thoroughly before eating it, so that harmful bacteria can be reduced. However, some bacteria are so dangerous that they are not completely destroyed even by reheating.
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Is it okay to heat food again and again?
It is not right to heat the same thing again and again. Every time the temperature changes, the risk of bacteria growth can increase. The quality of food may also reduce. Therefore, try to heat as much food as you want to eat.
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In which things should one be more careful?
Let us tell you, some food products can spoil very quickly, like-
- Milk and Dairy Products
- meat, fish and chicken
- Egg items
- cooked rice
- pulses and vegetables
- sea food
Leaving these things outside for long periods of time can be dangerous.
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How to avoid stale food?
- Keep food in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Keep the temperature of the refrigerator around 4°C or less.
- Heat it thoroughly before eating.
- Avoid reheating the same food repeatedly.
- If the smell, color or taste of food has changed, throw it away immediately.
Is every stale food harmful?
No, not every leftover food is harmful. If food is stored properly, eaten at the right time, and heated properly, it is often safe. Most danger occurs when food has been stored incorrectly, or has been left out for too long.
Content Source: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, World Health Organization, United States Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Department of Agriculture.
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