What should be done with leftover food that has not been properly stored?

When leftover food has not been properly stored, the safest course of action is to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. Proper storage is crucial in maintaining food safety, as improper storage can lead to bacterial growth and contamination. Foods left out at unsafe temperatures or not stored in appropriate conditions can become a breeding ground for harmful pathogens, rendering the food unsafe to eat.

Choosing to refrigerate improperly stored food does not eliminate the potential risk; bacteria may still be present even if the food is cooled down after being left out. Similarly, consuming the food immediately does not mitigate the risk it poses to health, as the harmful agents may still be active and lead to illness. Saving it for a cooking demonstration is also not advisable because the food could pose a health risk to anyone consuming it during that event. Prioritizing food safety means understanding when it is best to discard food that has not been handled correctly.