How long can bacon be left out of refrigerator?

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), cooked bacon can be left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated or frozen.

Uncooked bacon can be left out at room temperature for up to 1 hour. After that, it should be refrigerated or frozen.

Bacon that has been left out for longer than these periods of time should be discarded. This is because bacteria can grow on bacon at room temperature, which can cause food poisoning.

To store bacon, wrap it in plastic wrap or airtight plastic containers and place it in the refrigerator. Bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. If you want to store bacon for longer than 7 days, you can freeze it. Bacon can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

*When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and discard any bacon that has been left out at room temperature for longer than recommended.*