How long can you leave lunch meat on the counter before it is considered bad?

You should never leave lunch meat on the counter at room temperature for an extended period.

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Lunch meat is a perishable food that provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow rapidly at room temperature. This can lead to food poisoning.

* Food Safety Guidelines: The USDA recommends refrigerating lunch meat within two hours of opening the package, and even sooner if it's been exposed to temperatures above 90°F.

Safe Practices:

* Refrigerate promptly: Immediately put opened lunch meat in the refrigerator.

* Use within a few days: Refrigerated lunch meat is generally safe to eat for 3-5 days, but it's best to consume it sooner.

* Check for signs of spoilage: Look for any changes in smell, color, or texture. If you notice any, discard the meat.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.