How long can properly handled cooked meat leftovers stay in a fridge at 40°F or below?

3 to 4 days.

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  1. About a week
  2. 3 to 4 days ✔
  3. Until they smell different

Why: Eat refrigerated cooked meat leftovers within 3 to 4 days. Freeze them if you need longer storage.

Huh, didn't know that: The same chart gives refrigerated pizza a 3 to 4 day limit.

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References

Answer: 3 to 4 days. Eat refrigerated cooked meat leftovers within 3 to 4 days. Freeze them if you need longer storage.

  1. FoodSafety.gov: Cold Food Storage Chart www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/cold-food-storage-charts
    Cooked meat or poultry | 3 to 4 days
    Checked 2026-10-07.

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