How long can you leave an egg dish out and it will be safe to eat?

It's generally not safe to leave an egg dish out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Eggs are a prime breeding ground for bacteria, especially Salmonella. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, making the dish unsafe to eat after a certain time.

* Temperature Danger Zone: The "danger zone" for bacteria growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Leaving an egg dish out at room temperature puts it right in this zone.

Important Notes:

* Hot Dishes: If the egg dish is hot (above 140°F), you can leave it out for a maximum of two hours.

* Cold Dishes: If the dish is kept cold (below 40°F), you can leave it out for two hours.

* Summer Heat: In hot weather, it's best to reduce the time limit to one hour for both hot and cold egg dishes.

* Safety First: It's always better to err on the side of caution. If you're unsure, throw it out.

Remember: Never leave egg dishes out for extended periods, especially in warmer temperatures.