How long can seafood be left out?

Seafood is highly perishable and should be kept refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. It's not safe to leave seafood out at room temperature for more than two hours, and even less time if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C).

Here's a breakdown:

* Under 90°F (32°C): 2 hours maximum

* Above 90°F (32°C): 1 hour maximum

Why is this important?

Bacteria grow rapidly in seafood at room temperature, making it unsafe to eat. This can lead to food poisoning, which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Here are some tips for keeping seafood safe:

* Refrigerate immediately: Store seafood in the refrigerator as soon as you get home from the store.

* Keep it cold: Make sure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below.

* Wrap tightly: Store seafood in airtight containers or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

* Don't thaw on the counter: Thaw seafood in the refrigerator or in cold water. Never thaw it at room temperature.

* Cook thoroughly: Make sure seafood is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for at least 15 seconds.

If you're unsure if seafood is safe to eat, it's always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.