Does egg nog have to be refrigerated?

Here's why:

* Raw Eggs: Egg nog traditionally contains raw eggs. Raw eggs can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. Refrigeration slows down the growth of these bacteria, making the egg nog safer to consume.

* Dairy: Egg nog also contains dairy products like milk and cream, which can spoil quickly at room temperature. Refrigeration helps preserve the quality and freshness of the dairy ingredients.

Important Note: If you're concerned about the risk of Salmonella, you can use pasteurized eggs or a commercially prepared egg nog that is already pasteurized. These options are safer for consumption.

General rule: Any food that contains raw eggs or dairy products should be kept refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth and ensure food safety.