How long can a meat soup with vegetable stay out of the fridge?

It's not safe to leave meat soup with vegetables out of the fridge for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C). This "danger zone" is where bacteria can thrive and potentially cause food poisoning.

* Meat and vegetables: Both meat and vegetables can harbor bacteria. Leaving them out for extended periods allows these bacteria to multiply to dangerous levels.

To stay safe:

* Refrigerate promptly: Put your soup in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.

* Divide into smaller portions: This will help the soup cool down faster and reduce the risk of bacteria growth.

* Use a food thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature of the soup is below 40°F (4°C) when you store it in the fridge.

Remember: If you're unsure about the safety of your soup, it's always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.