how long can rice stay in fridge

Cooked rice can generally stay in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Some sources suggest up to 4 to 6 days if properly stored at temperatures below 40°F (4°C), but the safest guideline to avoid foodborne illness is to consume it within 1 to 2 days. The key is to refrigerate the rice as soon as possible, ideally within one hour of cooking, and store it in airtight containers. Signs that rice has gone bad include a strange smell, slimy texture, or dryness and crumbliness. If in doubt, it's safer to discard the rice to avoid risks associated with bacteria like Bacillus cereus. Freezing rice extends its shelf life significantly, up to 6 months.