12/21/2025
: The 2-Hour Rule for Holiday Leftovers! Don't let foodborne illness ruin your holiday cheer. NC Extension reminds you of the crucial "Chill" step: Perishable foods (like cooked meat, creamy casseroles, or cut fruit) must be refrigerated within 2 hours of serving! Use shallow containers to help food cool quickly below the "Danger Zone" (41–135°F). Remember the 4 C's: handwashing/sanitizing (Clean), preventing cross-contamination (Separate), cooking to proper temperatures (Cook), and keeping foods cold (Chill)!
