When putting away leftovers, you may have been scolded for putting warm food right into the refrigerator. Is it really an issue, or one of many kitchen wive-tales?

The concept behind waiting for foods to cool down before throwing them into the fridge comes from two trains of thought: the food will spoil if put into the refrigerator while warm and it will make the refrigerator's temperature plummet. Both of these reasons have been disproved through some serious food science. Refrigerators are designed to chill food, so they are built to sustain their temperature when its temperature begins to rise. If you have a large batch of leftovers, you can divide it up into smaller portions and refrigerate while still warm.

Bacteria can quickly grow on food within two hours of being left in room temperature, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.

In conclusion, don't be afraid to pack up your leftovers right away, it's the safest way to save your food.