How long can refried beans be left out?

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cooked beans, including refried beans, should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. After two hours, bacteria can begin to grow rapidly and can cause foodborne illness.

To keep refried beans safe, store them in a refrigerator or freezer. Refried beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to six months.

When reheating refried beans, be sure to heat them to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to kill any harmful bacteria that may have grown.