You open the fridge and see a whole chicken—untouched. So, you wonder, “How many days should a whole chicken be refrigerated?” You might also wonder how long fresh eggs can be stored in the refrigerator. We’re Teko.ph, the largest aircon and appliance services provider in the Philippines, here to provide you with a clear and concise explanation once and for all.

Why are leftover foods kept in the refrigerator?

Refrigeration is a helpful technique for keeping foods fresh for extended periods of time. When food is at the right temperature, bacteria development decreases. This lowers the risk of food poisoning and spoilage. And this is why owning a refrigerator and freezer is very important for every home.

Ensure your ref is at or below 4°C to keep perishable goods fresh. This helps keep meals out of the “temperature danger zone.” This temperature range, between 4°C and 60°C, is where bacteria reproduce the fastest. Best practice is to keep a thermometer inside your ref so you can check if you’re in the correct zone.

Make sure that perishable goods and leftovers do not stay out at room temperature for more than two hours. The longer you expose food to these temps, the more time bacteria can grow. Also, always check food labels to know if you need to refrigerate them.

Freezing is another great method for extending the shelf life of perishable goods. Using an appliance thermometer, confirm that your freezer is set to 0°C or below.

How long can you keep food in the refrigerator?

Remember to throw all unsealed items after seven days, as per the Food Code of the FDA. No leftovers should last longer than that in your refrigerator. You should even dispose of some meals before the seven-day mark. To learn how to handle certain goods, see the expiration dates and food safety recommendations. The table below, courtesy of FoodSafety.gov, is a helpful suggestion for storing food in the refrigerator. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out especially if the food stayed for four days in the fridge already!