Danger Zone: Can Leftover Pizza Not Refrigerated Kill You?
What To Know
- The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the temperature of the pizza, how long it has been sitting out, and whether or not it has any toppings.
- If the pizza has toppings, it is important to consider the type of toppings when determining how long it can be left out at room temperature.
- However, it is important to note that the pizza will not be as safe to eat as it would be if it were refrigerated.
Pizza is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But what happens when you have leftover pizza that you didn’t get to refrigerate? Can you still eat it?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the temperature of the pizza, how long it has been sitting out, and whether or not it has any toppings.
How Long Can Pizza Sit Out at Room Temperature?
According to the USDA, cooked pizza can be safely left out at room temperature for up to two hours. After two hours, the pizza should be refrigerated or discarded.
This is because bacteria can grow rapidly on food that is left out at room temperature. The longer the pizza sits out, the more bacteria will grow. Eating pizza that has been contaminated with bacteria can cause food poisoning.
What If the Pizza Has Toppings?
If the pizza has toppings, it is important to consider the type of toppings when determining how long it can be left out at room temperature. Some toppings, such as pepperoni and sausage, are more likely to spoil than others, such as vegetables.
As a general rule, pizza with meat toppings should be refrigerated within one hour of being cooked. Pizza with vegetable toppings can be left out at room temperature for up to two hours.
What If the Pizza Is Cold?
If the pizza is cold, it can be left out at room temperature for longer than two hours. This is because the cold temperature will inhibit the growth of bacteria. However, it is important to note that the pizza will not be as safe to eat as it would be if it were refrigerated.
How to Tell If Pizza Is Bad
There are a few ways to tell if pizza is bad. First, look for any signs of mold or bacteria growth. If you see any mold or bacteria, the pizza should be discarded.
Second, smell the pizza. If the pizza smells sour or off, it is likely bad.
Third, taste the pizza. If the pizza tastes sour or off, it should be discarded.
Can I Reheat Leftover Pizza?
Yes, you can reheat leftover pizza. However, it is important to reheat the pizza to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will kill any bacteria that may have grown on the pizza.
In a nutshell: Enjoying Leftover Pizza Safely
Leftover pizza can be a delicious and convenient meal. However, it is important to follow the proper food safety guidelines to ensure that the pizza is safe to eat. By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy leftover pizza without worry.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I eat leftover pizza that has been sitting out overnight?
A: No, you should not eat leftover pizza that has been sitting out overnight. The pizza is likely to have been contaminated with bacteria and could cause food poisoning.
Q: Can I eat leftover pizza that has been in the refrigerator for a week?
A: Yes, you can eat leftover pizza that has been in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, it is important to reheat the pizza to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating it.
Q: Can I eat leftover pizza that has been frozen?
A: Yes, you can eat leftover pizza that has been frozen. However, it is important to reheat the pizza to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating it.