Refrigerator Shelf Life Reference Guide

All times reflect safe storage at 40°F (4°C) or below, in a sealed container, with food properly cooled before refrigerating. These are the same values used in the Leftover Life app, based on USDA FoodKeeper, FDA, and FSIS guidelines.

⚠️ HIGH = heat-stable toxin risk or rapid pathogen growth. ELEVATED = shorter than commonly assumed. STANDARD = follows standard USDA guidance.

Risk levels reflect the consequence of mishandling, not the probability of illness under proper storage.