Can the oil used for frying meatballs still be eaten?

Generally, the oil used for frying meatballs can be reused if properly handled and not spoiled, but attention should be paid to its application and consumption amount. The detailed analysis is as follows:

After frying meatballs, if the oil has not noticeably darkened, has no rancid smell, and has been filtered to remove food residues and stored sealed in a refrigerator, it may be reused within a short period. This type of oil retains some nutritional components and flavor, and using it for stir-frying or stewing dishes can enhance aroma without causing harmful reactions. However, if the oil was overheated during frying, repeatedly used many times, or already shows signs of spoilage such as cloudiness or off-odors, it is not recommended for consumption, to avoid ingesting harmful substances.

When reusing oil from frying meatballs, avoid reheating at high temperatures; instead, use it for low-temperature cooking methods. Also, limit the intake amount, as excessive consumption of repeatedly used oil may increase metabolic burden on the body. It's important to develop good oil usage habits in daily life, regularly replace with fresh oil, and ensure dietary health.

It is recommended to filter out food residues immediately after each frying session, seal the oil and store it refrigerated, and try to use it up within 1–2 weeks. Long-term storage should be avoided to prevent oil degradation and potential food safety risks.