Can I eat leftovers while pregnant?

Moderate

Reheat all leftovers to steaming hot (165 °F). Refrigerate cooked food within 2 hours of serving and eat within 2–3 days.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Example, OB-GYN, MD Last reviewed: January 15, 2025Editorial process

What's safe

Leftovers reheated until steaming throughout (165 °F internal) — use a food thermometer
Frozen leftovers defrosted in the fridge and reheated to 165 °F
Leftovers eaten within 2–3 days of the original cook date

What to avoid

Leftovers 4+ days old, even if they smell fine — Listeria produces no detectable odour
Eating leftovers cold or at room temperature without reaching 165 °F
Cooked rice left at room temperature for more than 1 hour (Bacillus cereus risk)
Buffet or potluck leftovers of unknown cook date or storage history

By trimester

1st Trimester

Foodborne illness is most dangerous in the first trimester. Apply strict reheat and storage rules from week 1.

2nd Trimester

The same 165 °F rule applies throughout pregnancy. A $10 instant-read thermometer is a worthwhile investment.

3rd Trimester

Continue reheating all leftovers. Some providers add extra caution about high-risk foods (deli meats, soft cheeses) in the final weeks.

Sources & citations

Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Protect Your Pregnancy from Listeria
CDC
Listeria and Pregnancy (FAQ)
ACOG

Frequently asked questions

My leftovers smell fine — do I still need to reheat them?

Yes. Listeria monocytogenes produces no detectable odour or visible spoilage at dangerous concentrations, and it can grow at refrigerator temperatures as low as 34 °F. Reheating to 165 °F is the only reliable kill step.

Can I eat leftover sushi the next day?

No. Raw fish should never be eaten the next day — bacterial counts rise rapidly once fish is cut and refrigerated. Sushi should be consumed the same day it is prepared or purchased.

Track your meals with SafeBites

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More foods to check

Sushi Tuna Salmon Shrimp Smoked Salmon Swordfish Mackerel Raw Oysters Brie Feta Blue Cheese Goat Cheese

This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.