Can crab be cooked to kill bacteria if it was left out overnight?

Cooking crab that has been left out overnight may not be sufficient to eliminate certain types of bacteria or harmful toxins that could have developed during that period. Leaving perishable food items, including seafood, out at room temperature for extended periods allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, creating a potential risk of foodborne illness.

To ensure safety and minimize the growth of bacteria, it's generally recommended to dispose of any perishable food, such as crab, that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Refrigeration below 40°F (4°C) can slow bacterial growth, but if the crab has already been sitting out overnight, it's advisable to discard it to avoid potential health risks.