Think reheating leftover rice is harmless? Think again! đ If stored improperly, rice can harbor Bacillus cereus, a bacteria that survives cooking and produces toxins that cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrheaâeven after reheating.
To keep rice safe:
âł Cool it quicklyâdonât leave it out for more than 1 hour.
đ˝ď¸ Spread it out or use an uncovered container to help it cool faster.
âď¸ Store in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 1â2 days.
đĽ Reheat until steaming hotâand only once!
Freezing is safe, too. Just cool rice fast, portion it, freeze in airtight containers, and reheat directlyânever thaw on the counter.
Remember: rice can look and smell fine but still be dangerous. Safe storage protects your health and keeps your meals delicious and worry-free! â