Kitchen design
Christmas Leftovers: How to Store Them Safely
How quickly to cool the turkey, how many days leftovers keep in the fridge, and what freezes well, from the Food Standards Agency.
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Leftovers are half the fun of Christmas, but a warm kitchen full of food is ideal for bacteria. A few rules from the Food Standards Agency keep Boxing Day safe.
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The key rules
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cool quickly | Cool cooked food and get it into the fridge within one to two hours |
| Keep the fridge cold | Between 0 and 5°C (41°F) |
| Eat within 2 days | Or freeze leftovers you will not eat in time |
| Reheat until steaming hot | All the way through |
Cooling the turkey
Strip the meat from the carcass and divide it into smaller portions in shallow containers, so it cools faster. Do not leave it on the side all afternoon.
What freezes well
| Freezes well | Better eaten fresh |
|---|---|
| Turkey and ham meat, stuffing, gravy | Roast potatoes (go soft) |
| Christmas pudding, mince pies | Salads |
| Cooked vegetables in soups and bubble and squeak | Cream-based desserts |
Defrost frozen leftovers in the fridge and use them within 24 hours. For fridge layout, see how to organise your fridge.
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Frequently asked questions
How long do Christmas leftovers last in the fridge?
The Food Standards Agency advises eating leftovers within 2 days, or freezing them if you will not eat them in time.
How quickly should I put leftovers in the fridge?
Within one to two hours of cooking. Cut large joints into smaller portions so they cool faster.
Can I reheat leftover turkey more than once?
It is safest to reheat only the amount you need, once, until it is steaming hot all the way through.
Sources
- Christmas food hygiene, Food Standards Agency (GOV.UK), 11 January 2018. Checked 6 October 2026.
- How to chill, freeze and defrost food safely, Food Standards Agency (GOV.UK), 18 December 2017. Checked 6 October 2026.