In the UK, the Food Standards Agency's advice is to get leftovers into the fridge or freezer within 1–2 hours and eat or freeze them within 2 days.
The rules in one table
| Step | UK (Food Standards Agency advice) | Australia (Food Safety Information Council) |
|---|---|---|
| Cool and refrigerate | Within 1–2 hours of cooking, covered | Keep the fridge at 5°C or below |
| Eat within | 2 days (1 day for rice dishes), or freeze | 3 days |
| Reheat | Until steaming hot all the way through | To 75°C in the centre |
| Frozen leftovers | Defrost in the fridge overnight or in the microwave |
Tips that make it easier
- Carve leftover turkey off the bone before chilling: smaller portions cool faster.
- Label boxes with the date.
- Reheat only once.
FAQs
How long does leftover turkey last in the fridge?
UK advice is to eat it within 2 days or freeze it. Australia's Food Safety Information Council says within 3 days.
Can I freeze leftover turkey?
Yes. Freeze it within the 2-day window, defrost it in the fridge or microwave, and reheat until steaming hot.
How long can Christmas food sit out?
Get leftovers covered and into the fridge within 1–2 hours of cooking.
Plan it in minutes
Plan the right amount in the first place: the planner sizes the turkey from your guest list and keeps the whole day on schedule.
See the Christmas Dinner Planner UK →
