Is it safe to eat yesterday’s rice? Here’s the right way to store and reheat

For many working people, carrying rice cooked the previous day feels like the easiest option for lunch. Making rice once in two days helps save time and fuel. Cook, cool, and refrigerate, then reheat the next day. Simple enough. But have you ever wondered if eating reheated rice is really safe?

The problem with leftover rice
The main risk lies in a bacterium called Bacillus cereus. Cooking destroys most bacteria, but the spores of this one can survive heat. If rice is kept at room temperature, the spores multiply and produce toxins. These toxins can cause stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Food safety experts sometimes call this “fried rice syndrome.”

How to store rice safely
Reheated rice can be safe if stored and handled properly. Follow these steps:

• Cool quickly: Do not leave freshly cooked rice at room temperature for long. Experts suggest cooling within 1–2 hours. Spread the rice on a flat plate or shallow container so that it cools faster. Transfer to a clean container and refrigerate.
• Store correctly: Keep rice in the refrigerator at 4°C or lower. Use airtight containers to prevent contamination. In hot and humid weather, avoid leaving rice outside even for a short while.
• How long to keep: The safest option is to eat leftover rice within 24 hours. Some guidelines say rice can last 3-4 days in the fridge if stored well, but finishing it sooner is always better.
• Reheat well: Warm the rice until it is piping hot and steaming all the way through. Stir while reheating to avoid cold spots. Reheat only what you need. Do not reheat rice more than once.

Best ways to reheat rice

Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle a little water, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second bursts until steaming hot.

On the stove: Add a splash of water to a pan, stir in the rice, and heat until it boils. Drain excess water before serving.

A few extra checks
Sprinkling a little water while reheating helps retain moisture and prevents the rice from drying out. If the rice smells strange, feels slimy, or has been stored for too long, the safest step is to throw it away.