Leftover dinnerCold dishesDo not refrigerate them

When the temperature is high, many people prefer cold dishes as a late-night snack because they are appetizing and refreshing.Reheated stir-fried vegetables stored in the refrigerator overnight can be safely consumed if thoroughly heated again.Cold mixed dishesshould be discarded without hesitation.

This mainly because uneaten cold mixed dishes, even if placed in the refrigerator, will inevitably be invaded by bacteria.When eaten again, they are usually not reheated, so such cold dishes can easily cause stomach discomfort.

Stir-fried dishes are different; typically, when taken out from the refrigerator, they are reheated before eating, which to some extent can kill some of the bacteria that grow in the leftovers, making them relatively safer.

In addition to cold dishes, leafy vegetables should not be left over either.Leafy vegetables contain a higher amount of nitrate, and if cooked and stored for too long, bacteria will break down these nitrates into nitrites, which are carcinogenic; reheating cannot remove this effect.

Compared to leafy vegetables, the nitrate content in gourd-like vegetables, root and stem vegetables, and flower vegetables is relatively lower, with gourds having the lowest content.Therefore, if different types of vegetables are purchased at the same time, it's best to consume the stem and leaf vegetables first, such ascabbage,bok choy,andspinach.If preparing more dishes for the next day, gourd-like vegetables should be chosen primarily.Experts suggest that the safest method is not to have any leftover meals at all. However, given China's tradition of thriftiness, most households find it difficult to avoid leftovers; thus, cold dishes and stem and leaf vegetables should not be left over if possible.

Experts recommend not leaving any leftovers, but Chinese people are thrifty and many families find this difficult. At least, avoid leaving out cold dishes and stem or leafy vegetables should be used on the same day if possible.