Food experts advise against leaving food open at room temperature. This increases the risk of ‘fried rice syndrome’, a food poisoning…
Food experts warn against leaving dry foods like rice and pasta at room temperature because they raise the risk of ‘fried rice syndrome,’ a Bacillus cereus-caused food poisoning. When food is left out of the fridge, this bacterium grows. This food poisoning is making waves again after a 15-year-old case resurfaced on social media.
Fried rice syndrome was first documented in Belgium in 2008. One Journal of Clinical Microbiology case report notes that the student ate reheated spaghetti that had been out of the fridge for five days. He died the night after eating the microwaved lunch from nausea, headaches, and stomach pain.
Fried Rice Syndrome?
Fried rice syndrome is caused by Bacillus cereus, a ubiquitous microbe. The Conversation states that Bacillus cereus is a common environmental bacterium. In inadequately stored cooked foods, it can cause major health problems. Pasta and rice are the main culprits. It can also affect meat and cooked vegetables.
These microbes produce poisons that grow when food is left at room temperature or without refrigeration.
Fried Rice Syndrome symptoms
Food poisoning can be caused by Bacillus cereus. This pathogen causes vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms normally disappear in a few days, but people with weaker immune systems may need medical attention.
Bacillus cereus is hard to identify since its symptoms resemble other gastrointestinal disorders.
Conclusion
Fried rice syndrome, caused by Bacillus cereus bacteria, can result from consuming leftover rice at room temperature for too long. Bacteria proliferate and create toxins that induce diarrhea and vomiting. Refrigerate leftover rice within two hours of cooking and reheat it to avoid fried rice syndrome.
Avoid keeping cooked rice out for more than two hours, refrigerating it quickly, reheating it to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and storing leftover rice for more than five days. Consult a doctor within 1–6 hours of ingesting contaminated food. Most symptoms vanish within 24 hours, although some can persist 48. Fried rice syndrome has no cure, however water may help. Food safety is important, so refrigerate leftover rice quickly and reheat it completely.
