What can be done with unrefrigerated tomato sauce?

It's not recommended to use unrefrigerated tomato sauce, especially if it's been out of the fridge for an extended period. Here's why:

Food Safety Concerns:

* Spoilage: Tomato sauce is a perishable product, and bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature. This can lead to spoilage, causing the sauce to smell, taste, and look off.

* Food poisoning: Consuming spoiled tomato sauce can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

What NOT to do:

* Don't taste test it: If you're unsure about the safety, it's best not to risk it.

* Don't try to "fix" it: Even if the sauce looks fine, it might be contaminated. There's no way to guarantee it's safe.

Instead, consider these options:

* Discard it: If you're unsure about the sauce's safety, the best option is to throw it away.

* Use it in a dish that will be cooked thoroughly: If the sauce has been out for a short period and you're willing to take a risk, you could use it in a dish that will be cooked at high heat for an extended time (e.g., a stew or chili). However, this is not recommended, and you should use caution.

Tips for keeping tomato sauce safe:

* Refrigerate immediately: Store opened tomato sauce in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

* Use within a few days: Opened tomato sauce typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

* Freeze for longer storage: If you want to store it longer, freeze it in airtight containers. Frozen tomato sauce can last for several months.

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. If you're unsure about the safety of unrefrigerated tomato sauce, it's best to discard it.