Here's When Your Leftover Pizza Becomes Unsafe To Eat

How to safely store leftover pizza

There are extra measures you can take to keep leftover pizza as fresh as possible for up to four days. First, be sure to refrigerate it within two hours of receiving it. It's a common misconception that reheating makes it safe to eat again; certain bacteria, like Bacillus cereus found in cheese, can produce toxins if left out for too long, and heat won't eliminate these toxins. Second, always ensure that any leftover pizza slices are tightly wrapped in cling film or aluminum foil. This not only helps inhibit bacterial growth but also prevents the pizza from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the refrigerator.

If you don't intend to consume the pizza within four days, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it securely or place it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. It can remain fresh for up to two months, although it will technically be safe to eat indefinitely (just keep in mind that its flavor and texture will deteriorate over time). When you're ready to thaw it, do so in the refrigerator; it's unsafe to thaw leftovers on the counter, as this can lead to rapid bacterial growth.