Can you eat cottage cheese if it was left out over night?

It's not recommended to eat cottage cheese that's been left out overnight. Here's why:

* Temperature Danger Zone: Cottage cheese, like most dairy products, falls within the "temperature danger zone" (between 40°F and 140°F) where bacteria multiply rapidly.

* Spoilage: Bacteria can cause spoilage, leading to off-flavors, odors, and potentially harmful bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria.

* Foodborne Illness: Consuming spoiled cottage cheese can cause foodborne illness with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

The Bottom Line: While cottage cheese might look and smell fine, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it if it's been left out overnight.