Generally, most meal prepped foods will remain safe to eat for 3-5 days when stored in the refrigerator at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The lifespan can vary depending on the ingredients and methods of preparation. Here’s a brief overview:

• Cooked Poultry and Meat: Typically, they are good for 3-4 days. Be sure to cool them quickly after cooking to keep them safe.
• Seafood: Consume cooked seafood within 2-3 days.
• Cooked Vegetables: If refrigerated promptly, they can last up to 5 days.
• Grains and Pasta: When stored properly, they are safe to eat 3-5 days post-cooking.
• Salads: Leafy greens can wilt quickly, so for salads with dressing, aim to consume them within a day or two. Undressed salads can last a bit longer.

Maximize the shelf life of your meal prep with these easy-to-follow tips designed to extend freshness and maintain the quality of your food:

• Cool Down: Allow food to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup, which can hasten spoilage.
• Airtight Containers: Use quality, airtight containers to ward off bacteria and keep your meals fresh.
• Portion Control: Divide your meals into portions before storing them. This minimizes the need to reheat food multiple times, which can degrade quality and safety.

If you need your meal prep to last beyond a few days, freezing is a fantastic option. Most meals, with the exception of dishes that contain large amounts of fresh produce, can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. However, remember that quality can diminish the longer the food is frozen.

It’s not just about how long your meals can last, but also how you handle them:

• Reheating: Ensure that you reheat your meals to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill any harmful bacteria.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw and cooked foods separate during meal prep.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands before and after handling food.

At Box Bistro, our priority is to provide meals that are not only nutritious and delicious but also safe. We ensure that all meals are prepped with the highest safety standards, so you can enjoy your food with peace of mind. Trust us to fuel your week with quality meal preps that stay fresh from the first bite to the last.