how long does rice last in the fridge

Cooked rice generally lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly. It is important to refrigerate it within one hour of cooking and keep it in an airtight container. Beyond this period, the risk of bacterial growth, especially from Bacillus cereus, increases, which can cause food poisoning. Some guidelines suggest you can keep cooked rice up to 5 or 6 days refrigerated, but 3 to 4 days is a safer recommendation to avoid health risks. Signs that rice has gone bad include a strange smell, slimy texture, or dryness and crumbliness. If in doubt, it's best to discard the rice rather than risk illness. Freezing cooked rice can extend its shelf life to several months.