Can Bacon Sit Out All Night? Here’s The Truth You Need To Know
What To Know
- This is because bacteria can grow rapidly on cooked bacon at room temperature, and eating bacon that has been contaminated with bacteria can cause foodborne illness.
- The best way to reheat bacon is to cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it is warmed through.
- You can also reheat bacon in the microwave, but be sure to cook it on high for only 10-15 seconds at a time, stirring in between.
Bacon is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, it’s important to be aware of the food safety risks associated with bacon, especially when it comes to leaving it out at room temperature. In this blog post, we’ll answer the question “can bacon sit out all night?” and provide you with all the information you need to keep your bacon safe to eat.
How Long Can Bacon Sit Out?
According to the USDA, cooked bacon can be safely left out at room temperature for up to two hours. After two hours, the bacon should be refrigerated or discarded. This is because bacteria can grow rapidly on cooked bacon at room temperature, and eating bacon that has been contaminated with bacteria can cause foodborne illness.
What Happens if Bacon Sits Out Too Long?
If bacon sits out at room temperature for too long, it can become contaminated with bacteria. These bacteria can cause foodborne illness, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, foodborne illness can even be life-threatening.
How to Store Bacon Safely
To store bacon safely, it’s important to keep it refrigerated at all times. Bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days. If you need to store bacon for longer than seven days, you can freeze it for up to six months.
How to Reheat Bacon Safely
If you need to reheat bacon, it’s important to do so safely. The best way to reheat bacon is to cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it is warmed through. You can also reheat bacon in the microwave, but be sure to cook it on high for only 10-15 seconds at a time, stirring in between.
What Are the Symptoms of Foodborne Illness from Bacon?
The symptoms of foodborne illness from bacon can vary depending on the type of bacteria that caused the illness. However, some common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the symptoms of foodborne illness from bacon, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Foodborne illness can be serious, and it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I leave bacon out overnight if it’s wrapped in plastic wrap?
A: No, you should not leave bacon out overnight, even if it’s wrapped in plastic wrap. Plastic wrap does not create an airtight seal, and bacteria can still grow on the bacon.
Q: Can I eat bacon that has been left out for more than two hours?
A: No, you should not eat bacon that has been left out for more than two hours. Eating bacon that has been contaminated with bacteria can cause foodborne illness.
Q: How can I tell if bacon has gone bad?
A: Bacon that has gone bad will have a slimy texture, an off smell, and a greenish-gray color. If you see any of these signs, you should discard the bacon immediately.