How many hours should cooked meat be used in?

It's not about how many hours cooked meat should be used in, but rather how long it can safely sit out at room temperature.

Here's the breakdown:

* Danger Zone: Bacteria grow rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).

* 2-Hour Rule: Cooked meat should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in temperatures above 90°F).

* Refrigeration: To be safe, cooked meat should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking.

Exceptions:

* Cold Dishes: Some cold dishes, like salads with cooked meat, can be left out for longer, as the ingredients are kept cold.

* Hot Holding: If keeping cooked meat hot, it needs to be held at a temperature of 140°F (60°C) or above.

Remember: The 2-hour rule is a general guideline. If you're unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate your cooked meat as soon as possible.