How long is it safe to leave cooked food unrefrigerated?

Leaving cooked food unrefrigerated can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and cause foodborne illnesses. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), cooked food should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

If the room temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, then the food should not be left out for more than 1 hour. Additionally, if the food has been sitting out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 90 degrees Fahrenheit), it should be discarded.

To prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, it is important to refrigerate cooked food promptly. Food should be stored in airtight containers and placed in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. If the food is still warm, it is recommended to cool it down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.