We often store leftovers in the fridge for the next day — and with busy schedules, it’s common to cook meals for several days in advance.

However, if this is your habit, it's time to reconsider. A tragic story recently surfaced about a 50-year-old man who died after suffering severe diarrhea from eating leftovers at home.

Despite receiving hospital treatment, he did not survive.

The man, whose identity was not revealed, was from China. He was hospitalized after experiencing severe diarrhea — more than 10 times a day — and was treated with IV fluids. However, during the infusion, he suddenly fainted and was rushed to a higher-level hospital for emergency care. Unfortunately, his heart had stopped by the time he arrived, and after 40 minutes of resuscitation, he could not be saved.

Doctors believed he had developed acute enteritis from consuming food that had been left in the fridge for too long. The enteritis led to extreme diarrhea, causing an electrolyte imbalance that triggered acidosis and hyperkalemia — ultimately fatal.

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How Dangerous Are Leftovers? Can They Even Cause Cancer?

It’s not just food stored overnight — anything left unrefrigerated for 8–10 hours can be considered a leftover.

To examine the effects of leftover food on health, the Ningbo Food Testing and Inspection Institute conducted a study:

Researchers purchased common ingredients (meat, fish, vegetables) and prepared 30 household-style dishes. They divided them into groups — meat, mixed, vegetarian, and cold dishes — and stored them at 4°C and 25°C.

Key findings:

• Vegetables stored at 4°C for under 6 hours: Minimal nitrite change and limited bacterial growth.

• Vegetables stored at 25°C for over 6 hours: Nitrites didn’t increase significantly, but microbial growth surged.

Conclusion:
As long as food is stored at low temperatures, sealed properly (with cling film or containers), and consumed within 24 hours at 4°C, the risk of nitrites, microorganisms, or safety breaches is low — making it relatively safe.

However, leftover food can potentially contribute to cancer if consumed improperly over a long period. Even vegetables stored in ideal conditions aren’t entirely risk-free.

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In Theory, You Can Eat Overnight Vegetables — But It's Still Risky

While you may safely eat vegetables stored overnight under the right conditions, there's always a chance of nutrient loss and bacterial growth. To be safe, don’t overconsume, and always prioritize fresh food.

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5 Foods You Should Never Eat After Storing Overnight

1. Mushrooms & Wood Ear Fungus

Complex proteins in these fungi can disrupt digestion when reheated. They also contain high nitrates, which can become toxins over time, causing stomach discomfort. Best eaten fresh.

2. Leafy Greens

High in nitrates that convert to nitrites when left at room temperature. Nutrients are also depleted over time. Always consume while fresh.

3. Soy Products (Tofu, Soy Milk)

These are rich in protein and attract bacterial growth. If left too long, they can be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that causes nerve paralysis or death.

4. Soft-Boiled Eggs

Undercooked yolks aren’t fully sterilized. Left too long, bacteria can multiply rapidly.

5. Seafood

Some bacteria in seafood survive cooking and multiply again after refrigeration. Their protein breakdown can harm the liver and kidneys, making overnight seafood unsafe.

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How to Store Leftovers Safely

1. Keep Cold: Always refrigerate leftovers to prevent bacteria from spreading.

2. Store Separately: Keep meat and vegetables apart; use airtight containers or wrap tightly.

3. Monitor Time: Don’t keep cooked food for too long.

4. One Night Max: Don’t store leftovers for more than one night. Reheat only once.