Tips

“The Dangers of Reheated Meals: 6 Foods You Should Never Reheat”

Introducing the age-old question: Is reheating leftover food safe? This is a common practice in households, but is it beneficial or detrimental to your health? Delve into this insightful article to uncover the truth and make informed decisions about your dietary habits.

Administrator

11 July, 2024

It is common to store leftovers in the refrigerator, believing that this practice ensures food safety. However, scientific research has proven that improper food storage and reheating can also be detrimental to one’s health.

1 Is Eating Reheated Food Good for Your Health?

According to the Food Standards Agency of the UK (FSA) and the European Food Information Council (EUFIC), it is advised not to reheat food due to potential health hazards.

Additionally, Dr. Lâm Văn Mân, Head of Research and Development and Technology Transfer at the Institute of Food Safety, states: “Storing leftovers in the refrigerator and reheating them the next day is not recommended. Leftover food often contains harmful microorganisms. While refrigeration slows down their activity, reheating may not destroy all of them, increasing the risk of food poisoning.” In summary, eating reheated food may not be healthy and can lead to food poisoning.

Reheated food may not be healthy

2 Types of Food to Avoid Reheating

While last night’s leftovers can be a convenient option for a hot lunch, it is important to consider the potential risks before reheating certain foods. Dr. Trần Ngọc Lưu Phương, Head of Endoscopy at Nguyễn Tri Phương Hospital, provides a list of foods that should be avoided for reheating.

Chicken

Avoid reheating cooked chicken multiple times

Chicken is susceptible to Salmonella bacteria. When reheated in a microwave, the heat may not penetrate evenly, leaving pockets of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It is advised not to reheat chicken leftovers as the protein content is higher than in red meat, and reheating can lead to protein breakdown, causing digestive discomfort.

Rice

Rice should be consumed freshly cooked

Rice should be consumed freshly cooked and not left overnight. Leftover rice can cause food poisoning due to the presence of Bacillus Cereus, a highly resistant bacterium. While the bacteria are destroyed by heat, they produce harmful spores. Reheating and storing rice in the refrigerator can convert these spores into toxins harmful to the stomach.

Eggs

Eggs should be prepared in one go

According to Thanh Niên newspaper, eggs, being rich in protein, are also recommended to be boiled or cooked only once. Scientists have found that due to their high protein content, eggs contain nitrogen that can be oxidized upon reheating, forming cancer-causing compounds.

The yolk of a heated egg contains calcium and other nutrients. However, when exposed to high temperatures multiple times, the yolk undergoes detrimental changes that can affect the body.

Vegetables with High Nitrate Content

Spinach and celery have high nitrate content

Nitrates are natural compounds found in the human body and certain vegetables. Some vegetables with high nitrate content include spinach, celery, etc. For these vegetables, it is recommended to avoid reheating or boiling as the nitrates can convert to nitrites, which are carcinogenic. Reheating beets in the microwave can also cause them to become acidic, affecting the small intestine.

Mushrooms

Certain types of mushrooms

Mushrooms are rich in minerals and protein. However, when reheated, the protein breaks down, forming toxic nitrogen compounds that are oxidized and form free radicals. These compounds are harmful to the stomach and cardiovascular system.

Potatoes

Potatoes are nutrient-rich

According to Thanh Niên newspaper, potatoes are a nutrient-rich food, containing vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When exposed to high temperatures, they can undergo changes that produce Clostridium Botulinum, a toxin-producing bacterium. This bacterium can grow at room temperature, and even when refrigerated, potatoes should be consumed within 1-2 days.

3 Tips for Safe Leftover Food Storage

To ensure the health of your family, it is important to follow these safe food storage practices:

Store food at temperatures below 5°C (41°F) and reheat to a minimum temperature of 60°C (140°F).
Place food in a sufficiently cold compartment of the refrigerator. Regularly clean out the refrigerator to ensure proper air circulation and prevent food spoilage and bacterial growth.
Store food in the refrigerator promptly, within 2 hours of cooking.
Recommended storage times: Meat dishes no more than 2 days, rice no more than 1 hour after cooking and up to 6 days in the refrigerator.

Further reading: 9 simple yet delicious and nutritious recipes

We have shared essential knowledge about food groups to avoid and safe food storage practices for reheated meals. Pay attention to these tips to prevent food poisoning for your family.

Source: Thanh Niên newspaper

Frequently asked questions

Reheating certain foods can lead to food poisoning and other health issues due to bacterial growth and the formation of toxic compounds. Some foods can also lose their nutritional value and taste when reheated.

There are several foods that are not recommended for reheating: spinach, beets, eggs, chicken, rice, and potatoes.

Spinach and beets: Reheating these vegetables can cause the release of harmful oxalic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption and cause digestive issues.
Eggs: When reheated, eggs can become rubbery and difficult to digest, and there is also a risk of bacterial growth.
Chicken: Reheating cooked chicken can lead to dryness and overcooking, making it difficult to chew and digest. It also increases the risk of food poisoning.
Rice: Leftover rice can contain spores of Bacillus cereus, a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Reheating rice may not kill these spores and could lead to illness.
Potatoes: Reheated potatoes can form acrylamide, a toxic compound and potential carcinogen. Acrylamide is formed when starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures.

It is generally not recommended to reheat the foods mentioned. However, if it is necessary, ensure that the food is heated thoroughly to a safe internal temperature to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overheating or burning the food.

Instead of reheating, consider using leftovers in new dishes or recipes. For example, cooked chicken can be shredded and used in a salad or sandwich, and leftover rice can be fried with vegetables to make fried rice. This way, you can still enjoy your leftovers without compromising taste or safety.