How long can food sit out? Fridge times
Quick answer: throw away perishable food that has been left out for more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour if it is hotter than 90°F (32°C). Keep the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
The danger zone
Bacteria grow fastest between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C), and can double in as little as 20 minutes. Keep cold food cold and hot food hot, and do not leave either in that range for long.
How long can food sit out?
| Situation | Maximum time out |
|---|---|
| Normal room temperature | 2 hours |
| Outdoors above 90°F (32°C), such as a summer picnic | 1 hour |
This includes the time food spends in the shopping bag, on the counter and on the buffet table. Do not rely on smell or look: food that is unsafe can seem fine.
Refrigerator storage times
These are typical guidelines for refrigerated food kept at 40°F or below.
| Food | Fridge time |
|---|---|
| Cooked leftovers | 3 to 4 days |
| Raw chicken, turkey, ground meat, fish | 1 to 2 days |
| Raw steaks, chops and roasts (beef, pork, lamb) | 3 to 5 days |
| Eggs in the shell | 3 to 5 weeks |
| Hard-boiled eggs | 1 week |
| Cooked rice and pasta | 3 to 4 days |
Freezing at 0°F (-18°C) keeps food safe indefinitely, though quality drops over time. Label containers with the date.
How to cool leftovers safely
- Divide large amounts into shallow containers so they cool quickly.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Do not leave a big pot of soup or rice to cool on the stove for hours.
Rice deserves a special mention: cooked rice left at room temperature can grow bacteria that produce toxins which reheating does not remove. Cool it quickly and refrigerate. See how to cook fluffy white rice.
Thawing safely
Thaw in the refrigerator, in cold water (change the water every 30 minutes) or in the microwave if you will cook right away. Never thaw on the counter.
Reheating
Heat leftovers to 165°F (74°C). See the safe internal cooking temperatures chart.
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat food left out overnight? No. Discard it.
How do I check my fridge temperature? Use an appliance thermometer and check it now and then.
Does the 2-hour rule apply to cooked chicken? Yes, and to cut fruit, dairy, cooked rice and anything else perishable.
This is general guidance based on USDA recommendations, not a substitute for advice from a food-safety authority. When in doubt, throw it out.