Is it safe to eat food that has been left unrefrigerated overnight?

Leaving food out overnight is a potential food safety risk. Harmful bacteria can grow rapidly in perishable foods, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products when they are left at room temperature for too long. The USDA recommends that perishable foods should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.

If you have left food out overnight, it is best to discard it to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses. The risk of illness increases if the food has been left out for an extended period or in a warm environment.

To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, it is essential to follow safe food handling practices. Store perishable foods in the refrigerator or freezer within two hours of cooking or purchasing. Cook food to the proper temperature, and use a food thermometer to ensure that it is safe to eat. When reheating leftovers, make sure they reach a temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.