Can You Reheat Takeaway?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA/NHS reheating guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, you can reheat Takeaway — if it went in the fridge within 2 hours of arriving. Reheat once, until piping hot throughout (75°C).
What makes it safe (or not)
Reheating leftover Takeaway is safe under the same rules as home-cooked food — the catch is that takeaway food has already been cooked, transported and left out while you ate, so its safe window is partly used up. If it was refrigerated within 2 hours of delivery, you can reheat once until piping hot. If the containers sat out all evening or overnight, throw them away. Rice dishes deserve extra caution: refrigerate within 1 hour and eat within 24 hours.
You can also check the calorie content of takeaway alongside its safety information.
How to reheat takeaway safely
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of the food arriving (1 hour for rice dishes).
- Eat within 1–2 days (24 hours for rice).
- Reheat in the oven, pan or microwave until piping hot all the way through — 75°C (165°F). Stir rice and noodle dishes halfway.
- Eat immediately; never reheat takeaway leftovers twice.
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Check Price →Takeaway: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy (Takeaway Food) | Fine if freshly & fully cooked |
| While breastfeeding (Takeaway Food) | Safe |
| Left out overnight (Takeaway Food) | No — throw it away (limit about 2 h) |
Common questions
Can you reheat Takeaway that was left out overnight?
No — throw it away. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, and some produce toxins that reheating can't destroy. No reheat can rescue food left out overnight.
What is the best way to reheat takeaway?
Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at about 180°C until it is steaming hot all the way through (75°C in the centre), then uncover for the last few minutes if you want the top to crisp. For a single portion the microwave is fine: cover it, stir or turn halfway, and check the middle.
Can you reheat Takeaway twice?
No — once only. Portion out what you'll eat and leave the rest chilled.
How long do Takeaway leftovers last in the fridge?
1–2 days, assuming they were refrigerated promptly. Rice-based dishes: 24 hours.
Is the microwave OK for Takeaway?
Yes — it's the standard method. Cover the food, stir halfway, and make sure the centre is steaming hot before eating.
Can I freeze takeaway instead of reheating it?
Yes. Cooled promptly and frozen in portions, it keeps for around 2–3 months for best quality (USDA FoodKeeper), and stays safe beyond that. Defrost in the fridge, then reheat once until piping hot. See our freezing guide for the details.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA/NHS reheating guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.