How long can chicken soup stay out before it goes bad?

It's generally not recommended to leave chicken soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow rapidly, increasing the risk of food poisoning.

Here's a breakdown of how long chicken soup can stay out, based on temperature:

* Room temperature (70°F - 90°F): 2 hours maximum

* Danger zone (40°F - 140°F): Do not leave out for more than 2 hours.

* Refrigerator (40°F or below): Up to 3-4 days.

Important Considerations:

* Hot Soup: If the soup is still piping hot (above 140°F), it's generally safe for a little longer than 2 hours. However, it's best to refrigerate it as soon as it cools down.

* Ingredients: Soups with ingredients like dairy or eggs might spoil faster than those without.

* Personal Sensitivity: Some people are more sensitive to bacterial growth than others. If you have a compromised immune system, it's always best to err on the side of caution.

To prevent spoilage:

* Refrigerate promptly: After cooking or serving, refrigerate the soup as soon as it cools down to below 40°F.

* Store properly: Use airtight containers to prevent contamination and absorption of flavors from other foods.

* Freeze for longer storage: Chicken soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Always be sure to trust your senses when determining if food is safe to eat. If you notice any off-putting smell, color change, or texture, it's best to throw it away.