Is tuna pasta salad left unrefrigerated for 9 hours still good?

Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Tuna pasta salad contains ingredients like mayonnaise and cooked pasta, which are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria.

* Food poisoning risk: Consuming food left out for extended periods can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

The general rule is to keep perishable foods, like tuna pasta salad, refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. It's best to err on the side of caution and discard any food left out for more than 2 hours, especially during warmer temperatures.