Leftover rice rife with harmful bacteria, experts warn

You may want to rethink that second helping of Chinese food.

Experts warn rice left at room temperature has been found to be vulnerable to a strain of bacteria that causes food poisoning, the Daily Mail reported.

The bacteria, called Bacillus cereus, is found on dried rice and cooking may not kill all of it.

If the rice is left out at room temperature, the surviving bacteria can grow and germinate, its effects potentially harmful to the eater.

Rice should be consumed shortly after cooking while it is still hot, or should be cooled within two hours and stored in the refrigerator.