How long does food last?
Fridge and freezer times for 32 foods, with your exact eat-by date. From USDA and FoodSafety.gov data.
How to use it
- Find the foodSearch or tap a popular item like cooked chicken, rice or hard-boiled eggs.
- Set the date you cooked or stored itThe tool gives you an eat-by date for the fridge and a best-quality date for the freezer.
- Follow the 2-hour ruleRefrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking (1 hour if it is above 90°F).
Fridge and freezer storage chart
Refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below; freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe indefinitely.
Store leftovers safely
- Divide big batches into shallow containers so they cool fast.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours.
- Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C).
- Label containers with the date.
When in doubt, throw it out
Bacteria that cause food poisoning usually do not change how food looks, smells or tastes. Use the dates, not the sniff test.
Plan meals around what you already cooked with the meal plan generator.
Frequently asked questions
How long does cooked chicken last in the fridge?
3 to 4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below, and 2 to 6 months in the freezer for best quality.
How long does cooked rice last in the fridge?
Treat cooked rice like other leftovers: eat it within 3 to 4 days, and cool and refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking. It freezes well for about 3 to 4 months.
How long do hard-boiled eggs last?
1 week in the refrigerator. Do not freeze hard-cooked eggs.
How long does raw ground beef last in the fridge?
1 to 2 days in the refrigerator, or 3 to 4 months in the freezer.
How long does salmon last in the fridge?
Raw salmon and other fatty fish last 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator and 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Cooked fish leftovers keep 3 to 4 days.
How long do leftovers last?
Most cooked leftovers keep 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator and 3 to 4 months in the freezer, according to the USDA.
How long can food sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour if it is above 90°F.
References
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Convert cups, tablespoons and grams for 30 ingredients, measured the way bakers do.
What can I make with these ingredients?
Tick what is in your fridge and get recipes ranked by match, with what is missing.
Every tool on this page, built into one app.
RecipeVault saves recipes from TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, shows protein on every recipe, plans your week and builds the grocery list. Free on iPhone and Android.