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Should Baked Potatoes Be Cooled in the Fridge or at Room Temperature?

Q:

Should Baked Potatoes Be Cooled in the Fridge or at Room Temperature?

A:

Any leftovers should be handled carefully to avoid any foodborne illness. The key to remember with leftover baked potatoes is to remove the internal heat for short term storage. Since a foil-wrapped potato (which we don’t recommend) can retain internal heat it can create an environment for harmful bacteria to grow, as the foil will act as a barrier for heat to escape. When an (unwrapped) baked potato is briefly left on a counter, this will allow for initial cooling. However, it’s best to refrigerate unwrapped baked potatoes as quickly as possible for food safety reasons, and this will naturally and safely release any remaining internal heat.   

 

In the mood for baked potatoes? Check out this simple baked potato recipe HERE