How to reheat leftovers safely

Heating food is a common part of cooking and meal preparation that plays a vital role in food safety, taste, and enjoyment. Whether you’re warming leftovers or cooking from scratch, applying heat properly can make all the difference. Heating food helps kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause foodborne illness. This is especially important when reheating meats, dairy, and previously cooked dishes. Heat enhances flavor by activating natural aromas and caramelizing sugars. It also softens food, making it more palatable and easier to digest.