Can cooked wood ear mushrooms be eaten the next day?

Aug 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to consume cooked wood ear mushrooms (Auricularia auricula-judae) overnight, even if they have been refrigerated, as there is still a certain health risk. If stored improperly or kept for too long, consumption may cause discomfort. If leftovers are present, they should be sealed and refrigerated within 1 hour after cooking. When consumed the next day, they must be thoroughly reheated, and careful observation for signs of spoilage such as sliminess or unusual odor is necessary.

Generally, it is not recommended to consume cooked wood ear mushrooms (Auricularia auricula-judae) the next day, even if they are stored in the refrigerator, as there is still a certain health risk. If improperly stored or kept for too long, consumption may cause discomfort. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Cooked wood ear mushrooms contain high levels of moisture and polysaccharides and have a loose texture that easily absorbs bacteria. During overnight storage, bacteria may continue to multiply slowly and even produce substances harmful to the human body. These substances may not be completely eliminated by subsequent heating and could irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea. Particularly when stored at room temperature overnight, the rate of bacterial growth is faster, thus increasing the risk. In daily life, it is recommended to soak, cook, and consume wood ear mushrooms immediately, avoiding leftovers as much as possible.

If leftovers are unavoidable, they should be sealed and refrigerated within one hour after cooking. When consumed the next day, they should be thoroughly reheated, and careful inspection for signs of spoilage such as stickiness or an unusual odor should be performed. Even so, consumption should still be approached with caution, and freshly cooked wood ear mushrooms should be prioritized.

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