How long can packaged cookie dough be left out at room temperature?

It's not safe to leave packaged cookie dough out at room temperature for very long.

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Room temperature is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, including harmful ones like Salmonella and E. coli. These can cause food poisoning.

* Spoilage: The ingredients in cookie dough, especially eggs and dairy, can spoil quickly at room temperature. This can result in an unpleasant taste and texture.

General Guidelines:

* Refrigerate: Most packaged cookie dough should be refrigerated immediately after opening and used within the timeframe specified on the packaging.

* Freeze: If you won't use the dough within the recommended time, freeze it.

Never leave any type of cookie dough out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.