Do cooked meatballs spoil when left out?

Yes, cooked meatballs left out at room temperature can spoil. Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Bacteria thrive in the "danger zone" between 40°F and 140°F. At room temperature, which is typically above this range, bacteria multiply rapidly.

* Food poisoning risk: Consuming spoiled meatballs can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

* Speed of spoilage: The speed at which meatballs spoil depends on factors like the room temperature, the meat's quality, and the presence of other foods. However, it's generally unsafe to leave cooked meatballs out for more than two hours.

Safety guidelines:

* Refrigerate within 2 hours: Always refrigerate cooked meatballs within two hours of cooking, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F.

* Store properly: Store meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

* Reheat thoroughly: When reheating, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to kill any bacteria.

In summary: To ensure your safety, it's crucial to refrigerate cooked meatballs promptly and reheat them thoroughly before consuming.