What is the 4 hour rule?

If the total time is: • Less than 2 hours, the food can be used or put back in the refrigerator for later use, • Between 2 and 4 hours, the food can still be used, but can't be put back in the refrigerator, and • 4 hours or longer, the food must be thrown out. 2-HOUR / 4-HOUR RULE.



People Also Ask

Myth: If you let food sit out more than 2 hours, you can make it safe by reheating it really hot. Fact: Some bacteria, such as staphylococcus (staph) and Bacillus cereus, produce toxins not destroyed by high cooking temperatures.

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