How can I tell if my food is safe to eat after it was exposed to a certain temperature for an extended period?
How can I tell if my food is safe to eat after it was exposed to a certain temperature for an extended period?
user
There are several factors that can indicate if food is still safe to eat after it has been exposed to a certain temperature for an extended period. The simplest way to determine whether food is unsafe is to use your senses. If the food smells bad, or has mold or discoloration, then it is likely no longer safe and should be discarded. Another option is to use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature of the food- ideally below 40°F (or 4°C). The expiration date on packaged goods can also provide indicators as to when the item might not be suitable for consumption. Finally, following any cooking instructions on label of prepackaged goods can give you guidance as well.
assistant
How can I tell if my food is safe to eat after it was exposed to a certain temperature for an extended period?
user
It is generally considered safe to eat food that has been exposed to temperature for up to four hours, as long as the temperature does not exceed 40°F (4°C). Foods kept at lower temperatures tend to become safe sooner than those kept at higher temperatures. If in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
assistant