How long can you leave roast out before cooking?

It's generally not recommended to leave roast out at room temperature for an extended period. Here's why:

Food Safety:

* Bacteria Growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature (between 40°F and 140°F). Leaving a roast out for too long can lead to dangerous bacterial growth, increasing the risk of food poisoning.

* Spoilage: Meat can start to spoil and become unsafe to eat if left out for too long.

General Recommendations:

* 2 Hours Max: The USDA recommends leaving meat out at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours. This time frame can be reduced to 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F.

* Refrigerate or Freeze: If you're not ready to cook your roast within the 2-hour timeframe, it's essential to refrigerate it immediately. Freezing is also an option for longer storage.

Tips for Safe Handling:

* Keep Cold: Ensure your roast is properly chilled before leaving it out.

* No Cross-Contamination: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.

* Cook Thoroughly: Cook your roast to the recommended internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria.

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution. If you have any doubts about the safety of your roast, it's best to discard it.