Now that Christmas is over, you may be wondering what to do with leftover ham and other foods. Of course, there are many options, but you shouldn’t leave leftover food in the refrigerator for too long.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, ham and other leftovers will keep for three to four days in the refrigerator after cooking. If you need more time to use up those leftovers, ham and other leftovers will last in the freezer for up to four months. Although leftover food can be safely stored in the freezer indefinitely, freezers tend to absorb moisture and flavor from food.

The USDA also recommends wrapping leftovers well to prevent loss of flavor and moisture.

“Cover leftovers, wrap them in airtight packaging, or seal them in storage containers. These practices help keep bacteria out, lock in moisture, and keep leftovers from picking up odors from other foods in the refrigerator. Refrigerate or freeze packaged leftovers immediately for rapid cooling,” advises the USDA.

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Although leftover ham is perfectly fine to eat cold, the USDA recommends keeping leftovers out of the “danger zone,” which is between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacteria tend to grow at these temperatures, which can cause foodborne illnesses.

If you decide to freeze leftovers, the safest ways to thaw them are in the microwave, refrigerator, or using cold water.

And all the pastries? Will you need to throw them away before New Year’s Day?

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It turns out that things like cookies can last a little longer.

The USDA states that baked or homemade cookies can be stored at room temperature for two to three weeks or two months in the refrigerator. The USDA also adds that cookies can maintain their quality when stored in the freezer for eight to 12 months.