deli ham left in warm car
I bought some ham from the deli the other day and forgot it in the car for about 5 hours. It was a 77 degree day. When I ran out to go get it the meat still felt cool so I threw it in the refrigerator right away. Is it still safe to eat?
Best Answer
This is really an issue of risk.
The USDA's recommendation is not to consume meat that has experienced more than four hours of cumulative time between 40° and 140° F. Essentially, that means that the level of risk of illness from food-borne pathogens is acceptable in that range. The government's position is that 5 hours beyond a level of risk that they are willing to expose the public to.
Also be aware that (sliced) deli meat is more prone to pathogens that a whole ham.
That said, it comes down to what level of risk you are comfortable with. Personally, I would probably eat it myself, but not serve it to others.
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Quick Answer about "deli ham left in warm car"
The United States Department of Agriculture notes that it's dangerous to eat cold cuts, sliced deli meats, cooked foods and cut vegetables that have been allowed to sit out at room temperature for two hours or longer (or 1 hour above 90° F).How long can lunch meat stay in car?
The USDA's recommendation is not to consume meat that has experienced more than four hours of cumulative time between 40\xb0 and 140\xb0 F. Essentially, that means that the level of risk of illness from food-borne pathogens is acceptable in that range.How long can deli ham sit out before it goes bad?
Keeping Deli Meat At Room Temperature The USDA recommends never leaving deli meats out at room temperature for longer than two hours. When left out at room temperature for more than two hours, deli meats and other perishables can develop harmful bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses.Can you eat deli meat that was left out overnight?
If a perishable food (such as meat or poultry) has been left out at room temperature overnight (more than two hours) it may not be safe. Discard it, even though it may look and smell good. Never taste a food to see if it is spoiled. Use a food thermometer to verify temperatures.How long can a deli sandwich be unrefrigerated?
To stay safe, sandwiches, salads, and other meals with perishable ingredients shouldn't be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours\u2014max. Leftovers should also go back in the refrigerator within 2 hours.Live PD: That's a Lot of Ham | A\u0026E
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