Can leftover food from the previous day be eaten after reheating?

Generally speaking, whether leftover food from the previous day can be eaten after reheating depends on the specific circumstances. If the leftover food has been properly stored under refrigerated or frozen conditions and has not exceeded the safe storage period, it is usually safe to eat. However, if the leftover food has been stored for more than 24 hours, the possibility of spoilage increases, and consumption is not recommended. A detailed explanation is as follows:

If the leftover food has been properly stored under refrigerated or frozen conditions, has not exceeded the safe storage period, and shows no obvious signs of spoilage, such as an unusual odor, discoloration, or mold spots, it can be safely consumed after being thoroughly reheated to an internal temperature above 70°C. It is recommended to cool prepared dishes quickly and place them into the refrigerator to avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods, which can increase bacterial growth.

However, if the leftover food has been stored for more than 24 hours, the risk of spoilage increases. At this point, even reheating may not guarantee safe consumption. Additionally, if the food has been left at room temperature for too long or is inadequately reheated, bacterial growth and the risk of food poisoning may increase, thus making it unsuitable for consumption.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain good living habits and pay attention to one's physical and mental health.