Can refrigeration prevent leftover food from spoiling overnight?

Refrigeration can usually prevent leftover food from spoiling overnight, but if stored improperly, spoilage may still occur.

Refrigeration slows down the growth of bacteria and microorganisms in food, thereby delaying the spoilage process. Placing leftovers in the refrigerator's chilling compartment, where the temperature is generally between 0-4°C, can significantly reduce the rate of bacterial proliferation, keeping the food relatively fresh for a short period. However, it is important to note that refrigeration does not completely kill bacteria but merely inhibits their growth. Therefore, refrigerated leftovers should still be consumed within a certain time frame.

It is generally recommended to consume leftovers within 24 hours, and they should be thoroughly heated before consumption. Additionally, if leftovers have been left at room temperature for too long, or if the refrigerator temperature is set too high, or the refrigeration environment is not sufficiently hygienic, these factors may lead to rapid bacterial growth, causing the food to spoil quickly. In such cases, even placing the leftovers in a refrigerator may not effectively prevent spoilage.

In daily life, it is advisable to cool leftover dishes quickly and store them in the refrigerator. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is maintained within a safe range, regularly check the stored food, and promptly discard any that has already spoiled.