Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day is observed in the United States on November 29. The day encourages people to check their refrigerators, discard food that is no longer safe to eat, and develop better habits for storing and using leftovers.

History of National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

The origins and creator of National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day are unknown. The observance takes place shortly after Thanksgiving, when many households have refrigerators filled with food from large family meals.

Leftovers can reduce food waste when they are cooled, stored, and reheated properly. However, forgotten containers may remain in the refrigerator until their contents are no longer safe to eat. Most cooked leftovers should be refrigerated promptly and used within three to four days.

National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day is also a reminder to plan portions carefully, label stored food, and freeze anything that will not be eaten soon. These simple habits can improve food safety while reducing unnecessary waste.

Interesting Facts About National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

• Most cooked leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days.
• Leftovers should generally be refrigerated within two hours of cooking or serving.
• Shallow containers help hot food cool more quickly and evenly.
• Food may contain harmful bacteria even when it looks and smells normal.
• Labeling containers with the storage date makes it easier to use older food first.
• Freezing suitable leftovers can extend their storage life and prevent waste.
• Food loss and waste are associated with a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Take Part in National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

• Check your refrigerator and discard leftovers that have been stored for too long.
• Do not taste questionable food to determine whether it is safe.
• Clean containers, shelves, and any spills left inside the refrigerator.
• Label future leftovers with the name of the dish and the date it was stored.
• Plan meals around food that needs to be used soon.
• Freeze suitable portions if you do not expect to eat them within a few days.

When Is National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day in 2026?

National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day is observed on November 29 each year.

Observations