Rice is a staple food in Indian homes. It is one of the most versatile ingredients available and can be cooked as an entrée, main or even a dessert. From dal-rice to fried rice, the list of our favorite rice dishes is endless. This means that we cook a lot of rice every day, after which there is obviously some left over. Although something as basic as reheating rice seems like the easiest way to avoid wasting food and time, it may not be the best practice for your health. Are you wondering how reheated rice can harm your health? Let’s find out what an expert should think about this topic.
Also read: 6 Easy Ways to Keep Rice Grains Separated and Prevent Sticking
Ideally, should you reheat rice?
No, while it is common to make rice in large quantities and store it for later use, it can actually cause more harm than good to your body.
Why?
Caused by a bacteria called Bacillus. According to Ayurvedic health instructor Dimple Jangra, this bacteria present in rice can grow very rapidly if it is left cooked at room temperature for a long time. When you reheat it and it is heated improperly, this bacteria is not destroyed and starts releasing other types of toxins which can cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Not only this, if you keep rice in the refrigerator for too long, it can lead to mold poisoning – because mold breeds in moist environments. This can release aflatoxins that harm the liver.
What should you really do with rice?
The best way to consume rice is to eat it while it is hot and add some ghee on top. Otherwise you can keep it out for an hour and then cool it in a bowl of cold water and then keep it in the fridge for a maximum of 24 hours. Make sure not to refrigerate cooked rice overnight.

What is the proper way to reheat rice?
Although Jangda suggests eating fresh rice as much as possible, if you still have some leftover rice that you want to finish off at your next meal, make sure it’s not hot but too hot to destroy bacteria. Is. Here’s what you need to do:
1. If you are reheating rice in the microwave, add 1 tablespoon water for every cup of rice and heat until the water is absorbed.
2. If you are heating the rice on the stove, then add water, oil or butter to it and fry it until it becomes dry.
Also read: Types of Rice: 5 Popular Varieties of Rice in South Indian Kitchen
So, now that you know how reheating rice can affect your health, make sure to follow these practices to stay healthy.