Aluminum foil is a common item in many kitchens, but according to Dr. Zachary Cartwright, a food scientist, using foil to store leftovers can actually be harmful. Unlike containers like Tupperware or sealable plastic bags, foil does not create an airtight seal. This lack of airtightness allows dangerous bacteria to thrive, putting you at risk for serious food poisoning.
In fact, experts are concerned about the decision by some companies, like Tesco, to use flexible plastic covers instead of hard lids on products like hummus. These flexible covers do not provide the same level of protection against microbes, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.
While aluminum foil is great for cooking or transporting food, it is not the best option for storing leftovers. Safer alternatives include using Tupperware containers, sealable bags, or cling film, as these can create an airtight seal that prevents microbe growth. Dangerous bacteria like staphylococcus and Bacillus cereus can multiply on food and produce toxins that cause food poisoning. Improper storage of leftovers can also increase the risk of Clostridium botulinum and Listeria monocytogenes, which can result in serious illness.
To ensure the safety of your leftovers, it’s important to follow some key tips. Use airtight containers, eat leftovers within two days, consider freezing them instead of refrigerating, make sure food is piping hot when reheating, keep cooked and uncooked foods separate to avoid cross-contamination, and avoid reheating leftovers more than once.
It’s also crucial to be aware of the temperature of your fridge. While a typical fridge temperature of 37°F to 40°F can slow down the growth of pathogens, freezing at minus 20°C is the only way to stop food poisoning bacteria from growing. Additionally, be cautious of aluminum reacting with acidic or salty foods and potentially leaching into your leftovers.
Overall, using sealable plastic containers for leftovers is the best option. They are cost-effective, reduce food waste, and offer airtight protection against harmful bacteria. Remember to label and date your containers, eat leftovers within two days, and discard anything that looks, smells, or feels off. If in doubt, freezing leftovers can provide more flexibility than refrigerating them.
In conclusion, taking the necessary precautions when storing leftovers can help prevent foodborne illnesses. Bacteria can grow rapidly under the right conditions, so it’s important to store food properly to ensure your safety. If you have any doubts about the safety of your leftovers, freezing them is a safer option than refrigerating.