How Long Does Rice Last in the Fridge?

Cooked rice, when properly stored in the fridge, typically lasts between three to six days. After rice is cooked, it is important to refrigerate it within two hours to avoid bacterial growth. Once in the fridge, the rice should be consumed within this timeframe to ensure both safety and quality. The ideal temperature for storing rice in the refrigerator is at or below 40°F (4°C), as bacteria tend to thrive at higher temperatures.

To maintain freshness, it’s best to store rice in an airtight container. This prevents the rice from absorbing unwanted moisture or odors from other foods, which can negatively affect its taste and texture. Resealable plastic bags can also be used, with as much air as possible removed before sealing to further preserve its quality.

Determining whether rice has gone bad can be done by observing a few key signs. The texture is a strong indicator—fresh rice will remain moist but not overly sticky. If it becomes excessively dry, hard, or crunchy, it’s likely spoiled. Additionally, any sour, musty, or off-putting smells are red flags that the rice is no longer safe to eat. Visually, mold or any form of discoloration is a sure sign that the rice should be discarded. If the rice smells fine but tastes sour or unpleasant, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming it.

There are certain risks involved in eating expired rice, as it is susceptible to contamination by Bacillus cereus, a type of bacteria that can survive the cooking process and multiply when the rice is left out too long. Consuming spoiled rice may result in food poisoning, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea occurring within a few hours.

For longer storage, freezing rice is a safer alternative. Rice that is frozen can last up to six months. Before freezing, let the rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it into freezer-safe, airtight containers or bags, making sure to label them with the date. When ready to use, rice can be thawed overnight in the fridge or reheated directly from frozen using a microwave.

Reheating rice should be done carefully to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which is necessary to kill any bacteria that may have developed. Whether reheating on the stovetop, in the microwave, or by steaming, adding a tablespoon of water can help restore moisture if the rice has dried out during refrigeration.

What does “best by date” mean?

The “best by” date on a product label indicates the date the product is expected to retain its optimal taste, quality, and performance, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. It is not a safety date, but rather a guideline for when the product is likely at its best.

Safety dates are different.

A safety date on a product label, such as “use by” or “expires on,” indicates the date until which the product is deemed safe to consume. After this date, the quality and safety of the product may diminish, and it may become unsafe to eat. These dates are commonly found on perishable items like dairy, meat, and seafood.

That means, if the product says “best by” you can assume the product may be consumed after the date printed. It may just not taste as fresh or good as intended.

Many dry goods last indefinitely but may not be the absolute best. Everything, including rice, you need to ask how long it lasts in the fridge.