You have too much againOrdered cateringor leave the pasta on the dining table overnight? Or maybe you're planning a trip but don't have a cooler bag? Then the question arises: How long does unrefrigerated food last? Nutritionists from the US Department of Agriculture have carefully examined how long leftover food can be safely consumed and at what point it can become dangerous. We summarize the most important tips for you and explain what you should keep in mind.
How long does unrefrigerated food last? That depends on the room temperature!
It doesn't matter whether you order food or eat it yourselfdelicious dish prepared- You should refrigerate leftover food for 2 hours. The rule of thumb applies - the warmer it is in the room, the faster you should store the food in a cool place. In summer, when temperatures are around 30 degrees Celsius, you should put the food in the refrigerator after an hour at the latest. The same applies to leftover food from the trip. To be on the safe side, take the dishes out of the cooler bag one at a time.
There's a good reason why you shouldn't keep food out of the fridge for longer than 2 hours: leftover food can harbor dangerous bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus,SalmonellaEnteritidis or Escherichia coly multiply. Temperatures between 4 degrees and 60 degrees Celsius are considered particularly dangerous. That's why you should never leave the finished food in the warm oven. Healthy people are less at risk, but small children and people with weakened immune systems are susceptible to food poisoning. To be on the safe side, you should cool the food quickly and keep it cold. This is pretty easy when it comes to pasta or pizza, but it can quickly become a challenge when it comes to stews or soups. Here are some tips that will help you with the task:
1. Pour the soup into several smaller containers.
2. Place the container with the soup in a larger container with cold water.
3. Place the pot on a windowsill or in an unheated room.
As soon as the food is lukewarm, it can be placed in the refrigerator. Cover the pot while doing this.
How long does unrefrigerated food last? Some products can also last longer at room temperature
Even if you follow the rule of thumb, it can sometimes happen that leftover food is left at room temperature for several hours or even overnight. Below is a list of foods and their shelf life (approximately!) at room temperature.
1. Foods containing starch are very susceptible to bacteria. These include, but are not limited to, cooked pasta, pizza and other dishes made with dough, potatoes and rice.
- Pasta without saucecan be stored unrefrigerated for several hours. However, you should eat the pasta within 24 hours. You can store the pasta in the refrigerator in a container without a lid for a maximum of three days.
- Boiled or fried potatoescan be stored in an unheated room overnight. The cooked potatoes will last up to 48 hours in the refrigerator. Like pasta, you should also store potatoes in a container without a lid. Cover them with paper towels.
- Reis,If it has been stored outside the refrigerator for more than two hours, you should throw it away. Dishes containing rice can be stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 1 day.
2. Fish, seafood, chicken and meat dishes are also very susceptible to harmful bacteria.
- Fish and seafood dishesRegardless of whether it is fried, cooked or grilled, you should definitely chill it within an hour of preparation. In the refrigerator they are stored in a sealed container.
- Meals with meat or chickenYou should store it in a cool place for at least 2 hours after preparation. They will last up to three days in the fridge.
3. Eggs are susceptible to bacteria, but are not as perishable as fish, meat and seafood. Depending on whether the eggs were fried or boiled, their shelf life may vary. Hard-boiled eggs last longest at room temperature - overnight, as long as they have not been quenched with cold water.
4. Dishes and pastries withFruit or vegetablesyou should also keep it cold. Boiled, simmered or grilled vegetables can last up to 24 hours when stored in the refrigerator. You should leave it at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours. Green leafy vegetables that are eaten raw should be chilled as soon as possible after purchase. Because it offers the best conditions for bacteria to multiply. Salads that you have seasoned should not be left on the table for longer than 1 hour.
How long does unrefrigerated food last? Tips for food for parties
Are you on the go all day and want to take lunch with you? In this case, in addition to rolls, various salads are also suitable, as long as they are not seasoned and the vegetables have been washed under running water. However, if you are planning a party, you can simply divide the party food into smaller portions. Serve the salad first. If you notice that the majority of guests are waiting for the next course, you can serve the starter. This way you ensure that the food is always fresh and does not stay on the table for too long. It's better to avoid buffets because the party food sits there for hours.
