Severe nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal cramps
Symptoms usually appear within 1–5 hours of eating and can last up to 24 hours. While most cases are mild, they can be severe — especially in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
The Danger Zone: How Leftover Rice Turns Toxic
Here’s how it happens:
Raw rice contains Bacillus cereus spores — harmless when dry.
When cooked, the spores survive (they’re heat-resistant).
If the cooked rice is left at room temperature, the spores turn into active bacteria.
The bacteria multiply rapidly and produce toxins.
Even if you reheat the rice, the emetic (vomit-inducing) toxin remains.
This is why “leaving rice out overnight” is a food safety red flag — even if it looks and smells fine.
How to Store and Reheat Rice Safely
You don’t have to give up leftover rice — just follow these food-safe practices:
