Grim reason why you should never wrap leftovers in foil

An expert has urged people to rethink how they store their leftover food, as wrapping things in foil could have 'life-threatening' consequences.

If there's one thing we can almost guarantee over Christmas, is a ridiculous amount of leftover food.

And when it comes to saving leftovers, most people wouldn't think twice about getting the tin foil out and sticking it in the fridge.

However, experts have warned that people could be making a huge mistake.

Food scientists have urged people to choose a different method for storing their leftovers, after concern that foil isn't completely air-tight - leading to the spread of bacteria.

Instead, the researchers are campaigning for people to use a plastic option.

Talking to Southern Living, Dr Zacharay Cartwight said: "Aluminium foil cannot create a completely airtight seal because it’s not inherently adhesive."

He added that tupperware containers or sealable plastic bags prevent any oxygen getting to the food, ensuring it is completely safe to reheat.

Not storing leftovers appropriately could land you in danger. (JodiJacobson/Getty Images)

And the risk is greater than most would imagine, as poorly stored leftovers can cause 'life-threatening' food poisoning.

It causes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and a fever.

While symptoms can often be managed at home, in rare cases, food poisoning can be a danger to life.

Tesco recently made the controversial decision to replace the plastic lids on their hummus pots, with plastic covers which cannot be stuck back down.

And customers are being warned that they are not completely airtight.

Primrose Freestone, a senior lecturer in clinical microbiology at the University of Leicester, also noted that our fridges may need to be slightly colder.

She noted that the typical fridge temperature of between 37°F (3°C) and 40°F (5°C) is not enough to stop all dangerous microbes from growing.

And stressed that freezing could be a safer option.

Researchers have claimed that tin foil may not be effective. (Kinga Krzeminska/Getty Images)

Studies have shown that the average household could save up to £1000 per year just by taking some time to organise their fridge.

This includes freezing items to defrost at a later date and placing food in the fridge tactically.

It is advised that meats, such as sausages, bacon, and chicken, should be stored on the bottom shelf.

This is because it prevents any residue dripping onto products below.

Dairy items like milk, cheese, and butter, should be stored at the top of the fridge.

Organising your fridge affectively could also save on energy bills as the appliance can run more efficiently.