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Even when properly stored in the fridge, leftover foods may give rise to cancer-causing agents. However, many individuals tend to overuse the refrigerator, leading to an accumulation of excess food. This article highlights various types of leftover foods in the fridge that contribute to the formation of cancer-causing substances.
1. Boiled vegetables, stir-fried vegetables, vegetable soups
Vegetables are common dishes in Vietnamese households. People often prepare more than needed, anticipating shortages for family members. Excess dishes like vegetable soups, stir-fried, or boiled vegetables are stored in the fridge for the next meal.
Even if the food still smells good and is not spoiled, keeping it overnight for the next meal can lead to the formation of cancer-causing substances.
When these leftovers enter the stomach, nitrites gradually transform into N-nitroso. Eating overnight stir-fried vegetables, soups, or boiled vegetables for an extended period can lead to stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, or digestive issues like abdominal pain, diarrhea, digestive tract infections, etc.
2. Bone broth soup
Bone broth soup is one of those dishes that are incredibly easy to enjoy. Whether it's winter or summer, you can make the most of bone broth by turning it into nutritious meals for your family. Many homemakers often prepare a substantial amount of bone broth soup. If you have leftovers, consider freezing them for later use. You can use bone broth from one day to the next.
However, storing bone broth as a liquid in the fridge for an extended period increases the risk of bacterial contamination, even if it's been carefully frozen.
Furthermore, the longer bone broth is stored in the refrigerator, the higher the nitrite content, increasing the risk of cancer. The addition of spices and salt enhances the flavor of the bone broth.
Reusing bone broth that's been cooked in metal pots like stainless steel or aluminum poses the risk of contamination with toxic substances released by these materials. You could experience food poisoning if you consume leftover bone broth stored in the fridge.
3. Seafood
During the scorching days of summer, many people buy seafood for their evening meals. Seafood is a dish rich in calcium and packed with nutrients when cooked and consumed promptly. Eating seafood overnight can have a significant impact on your health.
Leaving seafood overnight produces protein breakdown byproducts that can affect the kidneys and liver. Moreover, seafood can lead to food poisoning even when stored in the fridge.
4. Tips to Avoid Health Risks from Leftover Food in the Fridge
Promptly store leftover food in the fridge
Regardless of whether it's summer or winter, users should avoid leaving food outside for an extended period. Bacteria thrive and multiply when exposed to the external air environment.
Use materials like porcelain and china to store leftover food
Leftover food in pots and pans should be transferred to plates, porcelain bowls, or china, allowed to cool completely before placing them in the fridge for later use. Utensils made of porcelain or china aid in safer storage of main dishes.
Users should also use high-quality food wrap to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. You can use zip bags, quality plastic containers to reduce the risk of food leftovers being tainted by plastic.
Reheat leftover food before consuming
It's advisable to reheat leftover food rather than consuming it cold. You can use a microwave or place it on the stove to warm it up. During the heating process, remove the food wrap and cover it with porcelain or china to ensure the food's safety.
Regularly clean the refrigerator
Raw or leftover food stored in a dirty fridge can affect the health of the users. If the refrigerator is not cleaned regularly, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria like E. Coli, thriving even in cold environments.
Here are various types of leftover foods that produce cancer-causing substances, even when stored in the fridge, that you need to be aware of. Save this information for reference and application. Don't forget to follow Mytour for quick updates on the most useful information you need to know.
