How long can cooked food be left on the counter?

It's generally not safe to leave cooked food out on the counter for more than two hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

Here's a breakdown:

* Two hours at room temperature: This is the maximum time you should leave cooked food out.

* One hour at room temperature: If the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this time limit is reduced to one hour.

* Refrigerate promptly: To ensure food safety, refrigerate cooked food within these timeframes.

Important note: These are general guidelines. Factors like the type of food, the temperature of your kitchen, and how the food was cooked can influence how quickly bacteria grow.

For more specific information on food safety, consult the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service website or your local health department.