What will happen if you eat meat that has been left out of the fridge?

Consuming meat that has been left out of the refrigerator for an extended period of time can pose serious health risks due to the growth of harmful bacteria. Here's what can happen if you eat such meat:

1. Foodborne Illness: Meat that has been improperly stored at room temperature provides an ideal environment for the rapid growth of bacteria, such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridium perfringens. These bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and chills.

2. Severe Dehydration: Foodborne illnesses caused by contaminated meat can result in severe dehydration, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Dehydration occurs when excessive fluid is lost from the body due to persistent vomiting and diarrhea. If not promptly addressed, severe dehydration can lead to hospitalization.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: Consuming spoiled meat can trigger nausea and vomiting, which are natural defense mechanisms of the body to expel harmful substances. These symptoms usually manifest within a few hours of eating the contaminated food and can persist for several days.

4. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common consequence of foodborne illnesses associated with eating spoiled meat. The toxins produced by bacteria can irritate the intestinal lining, leading to loose, watery stools. Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

5. Abdominal Cramps: Intense abdominal cramps and pain are often experienced as a result of consuming contaminated meat. These cramps may persist for a significant duration and can be accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms.

6. Fever and Chills: Foodborne illnesses can cause a rise in body temperature, leading to fever. Chills and shivering may also occur as the body attempts to combat the infection.

7. Headache and Muscle Aches: Some foodborne illnesses caused by spoiled meat can lead to headaches and muscle aches. These symptoms may accompany other signs of gastrointestinal distress.

8. Rare but Serious Complications: In certain cases, foodborne illnesses from contaminated meat can lead to more severe and life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure, liver damage, and even neurological issues. These complications primarily affect vulnerable populations, including young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

To prevent these adverse effects, it is crucial to practice proper food handling and storage techniques. Meat should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking or purchasing, and any leftovers should be refrigerated or frozen promptly. Additionally, it's important to follow recommended cooking temperatures to ensure that all harmful bacteria are destroyed.