What should be done to meat that has been left out at room temperature for too long?

When meat has been left out at room temperature for an extended period, it can enter the danger zone for bacterial growth, defined as temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. In this temperature range, harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

Discarding the meat is the safest option, as cooking it may not eliminate all the toxins that the bacteria could have produced while the meat was in the danger zone. Even if the meat appears to be fine, it’s crucial to prioritize food safety to prevent any potential health risks. Keeping food safe involves adhering strictly to guidelines regarding time and temperature for food storage and serving.

Other approaches, such as refrigerating it for later use or covering it tightly to serve later, do not address the risks associated with leaving the meat out, as cooling does not reverse the potential multiplication of harmful bacteria that may have already occurred. It is essential to be cautious with such situations to ensure food safety.