How long can you keep an item out of the refrigerator when it says on container refrigerated?

It depends on the specific food item and its packaging recommendations. Highly perishable items such as meat, poultry, milk, eggs, and fish should be refrigerated at all times. Some pre-packaged foods indicate refrigeration for quality purposes and may still be considered safe to consume if left unrefrigerated for a brief period, such as during meal preparation or during a short trip to the grocery store. However, it is generally advisable to follow the storage instructions on the food packaging to ensure both quality and safety.