It’s a shocking reminder of how food safety can be a matter of life and death. Recently, a 50-year-old man tragically died after consuming leftovers that had been kept in the fridge overnight. While leftovers can be a convenient meal, some foods become dangerous if stored too long.

Here are 5 foods you should never keep overnight—or if you do, toss any leftovers immediately:

1. Cooked rice — can harbor harmful bacteria if left too long.
2. Seafood — spoils quickly and can cause severe food poisoning.
3. Chicken or turkey — bacteria grows fast after a few hours if not stored properly.
4. Potatoes — especially if cooked and left at room temperature, they can grow toxins.
5. Leafy greens or cut fruits — spoil and develop bacteria rapidly.

Always store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. When in doubt, throw it out—your health is worth it.

Stay safe and protect your family!