11/30/2025
A GMA TV segment highlighting how long Thanksgiving leftovers remain safe to eat is getting renewed attention as viewers take stock of their holiday meals. The graphic, sourced from FoodSafety.gov and featured during an ABC News broadcast, breaks down recommended storage times for common Thanksgiving dishes in both the refrigerator and freezer.
According to the chart, turkey and gravy should only be kept in the refrigerator for three to four days before they are no longer considered safe to eat. The guidance emphasizes that even properly stored meats can become unsafe after that window due to bacterial growth.
More flexible storage limits apply to popular side dishes. Potatoes, yams, and stuffing are listed as safe for up to four days in the refrigerator, but can last significantly longer when frozen — up to two months under proper freezer conditions.
Cranberry sauce carries different guidance. The chart notes that it can remain in the refrigerator for seven to ten days, but freezing is not recommended, likely due to changes in texture and consistency once thawed.
The segment aired as part of ABC’s post-Thanksgiving coverage, as travel delays, winter storms, and holiday cleanup dominated national headlines. With many households still working through leftovers days after the holiday, the reminder serves as a timely food-safety warning to prevent foodborne illness. **are yall still eating Thanksgiving leftovers? When’s the last day for you?**