How long Thanksgiving food leftovers last, plus more food safety tips

Before you make a savory sandwich or turkey pot pie out of your Thanksgiving leftovers, figure out the fridge life of your favorite dishes first.
Here’s how long your leftovers will last in the fridge, freezer or both, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The star protein will last four days in the fridge. In the freezer, it can last four months for best quality — after that span it will dry out and lose flavor.
Cut the leftover turkey into small pieces and store separately in small, air-tight containers.
Gravy can last up to four days in fridge and up to four months in freezer.
To easily reheat gravy, add to a sauce pan and bringing to a rolling boil. Cover with a lid to heat all the way through.
The sweet and tart side stays good for a week to 10 days in the fridge. Freezing is not recommended.
Store in an air-tight containter and refrigerate after opening to keep for up to two weeks. Like fresh cranberry sauce, freezing is not recommended.
The two starches can be stored for four days in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer.
Up to four days in the fridge and two to three months months in the freezer in properly stored containers.
Fruit pies can be kept at room temperature for two days, according to Bettycrocker.com. They can then be stored in the fridge, loosely covered, for up to two more days. An unbaked crust will keep for two months in the freezer, while a baked crust will keep for four months.
Refrigerate all leftovers within two hours at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.
Leftovers should always be reheated to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Editor’s note: This story was originally published on November 23, 2018.