Will uncooked meat go bad if it is left out?

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly in the "danger zone," which is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Room temperature falls within this range, allowing bacteria to thrive on raw meat.

* Spoilage: Bacteria break down the meat, causing changes in its appearance, smell, and texture. This leads to spoilage, making the meat unsafe to eat.

* Foodborne Illness: Consuming spoiled meat can lead to foodborne illnesses like salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

How long does it take for uncooked meat to go bad at room temperature?

The time it takes for uncooked meat to go bad depends on:

* Type of meat: Ground meat spoils faster than whole cuts.

* Temperature: The warmer the temperature, the faster the spoilage.

* Humidity: High humidity speeds up spoilage.

As a general rule, it's best to refrigerate uncooked meat within two hours of purchasing or preparing it.

Important: If you are unsure about the safety of your meat, it's better to err on the side of caution and throw it away.