My mother-in-law always leaves extra cooked sausages in the fridge. I’m worried about eating them after 5 days. How long do sausages last in fridge anyway?

It's a common scenario in many households: leftovers beautifully packed in the fridge, waiting for their second chance to delight our palates. One of the more popular leftover items is cooked sausages, deposited into the fridge with the promise of a quick and tasty meal.

Yet, as the days pass by, the uncertainty starts to creep in. How long can these sausages safely stay in our fridge before they morph from a savory treat to a health risk?

When it comes to cooked sausage, refrigeration is crucial to keep them safe to eat. As a general guideline, here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Cooked sausages usually last in the fridge for three to four days if they are stored properly at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

2. To extend the longevity of cooked sausages, consider freezing them. They can last in the freezer for up to two months without significant loss of flavor or texture.

3. Always store cooked sausages in shallow, airtight containers or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maximize their shelf life.

4. If the sausage has been in contact with any raw food or juices, its shelf life might be compromised, and it's best to consume them within one to two days.

5. A clear sign that sausages have gone bad is a sour odor, a slimy texture, or any signs of mold. If you notice any of these, it's important to discard the sausages immediately.

Reheating leftovers properly is just as important as storing them. Remember these tips:

1. Always reheat cooked sausages to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which is the safe temperature for eliminating harmful bacteria.

2. When reheating, aim to do so only once. Repeated reheating of the same food can significantly decrease its quality and may increase the risk of foodborne illness.

3. Use methods like microwaving, pan-frying, or baking to reheat the sausages evenly.

4. If the cooked sausages were frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming. It's best not to reheat directly from frozen.

While food safety guidelines are a solid starting point, they are not fail-proof. If you're ever in doubt about the freshness of your cooked sausages, it's smart to trust your senses. Look for any discoloration, feel for a slimy coating, and sniff for any off-putting smells. If cooked sausages exhibit any of these signs—even before the 3-4 day recommended window—it's advisable to err on the side of caution and dispose of them.

In summary, while it's thoughtful of your mother-in-law to leave extra cooked sausages in the fridge, it’s important to pay attention to how long they’ve been stored. A good practice would be to label the containers with the date of storage, so there's no guesswork involved. If they have been in the fridge for up to four days, enjoy them with confidence—but if they've been there for closer to five days or longer, it may be time to say goodbye to those leftovers. Your health is always the top priority, and when it comes to leftovers, it's better to be safe than sorry.