You have an urge for late-night snacking. You remember the scrumptious chicken (or warming from beef) you made earlier. The only problem is, you left it out on the kitchen counter overnight. Is it a safe snack or will it be your unfortunate appointment with food poison?
First, full disclosure: I have done this kitchen faux pas more than I care to admit. Life gets busy, and we sometimes forget to put leftovers into the refrigerator. But hey, we are human and things happen!
Now for the nitty gritty. Can you eat poultry or beef that you have left out overnight? The short answer, well… it depends.
The Danger Zone:
You’ve likely heard the term, “danger zone” in food safety. That is the temperature range of 40°F (4°C) -140°F (60°C), where bacteria can rapidly multiply. The danger zone provides the optimal time for cooked meat to hangout.
A chicken problem:
Okay, let’s start with poultry, chicken. Chicken is famous for being home to bacteria such as salmonella and campylobacter that can make you quite sick. If you left out roasted chicken overnight, your chicken is a welcome mat for these bacteria. A Tougher Meat:
Beef, on the other hand, is a little tougher when it comes to bacteria before it gets you sick. It’s not as susceptible to the nasties as chicken because it is less moist, and has a higher acid level. Still, I wouldn’t leave a piece of cooked beef out overnight.
Trust Your Senses:
One rule to live by is to trust your senses. If your poultry or beef feels, looks or smells strange, don’t even think about eating it. If it looks and smells fine, you can taste a little bit. If it taste’s off or strange, throw it away.
The 2 Hour Rule:
Here is a general guideline: perishable food should not be left out in room temperature for more than 2 hours. This includes chicken or beef that is cooked. So, if you left that steak outside for 8 hours, it is time to say goodbye.
The Best Judgement:
When in doubt, throw it out! And there is a reason for this cliché. Your health is way more valuable than ruining the few leftovers you have. Better to be safe than sorry, right?
Prevention:
The best way to avoid this whole situation is to be aware. After your leftovers are cooled off some, be sure to get them in the fridge. Put them in a container that is airtight to help keep your food longer.
So, now back to the original question. Is it safe to eat poultry or beef left on the counter overnight? Not a good idea. Foodborne illness is very serious and there is a risk. Use common sense and when in doubt, dispose of it.
Of course kitchen blunders happen, however your precaution will help. Keep your food safe, your stomach happy, snacks at midnight delicious.
