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Chili Safety

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Is it safe to consume chili that has been left out in a pot, with a slightly open lid, in a 65-degree house for up to 4 hours? Can microwaving it make it safe to eat?

Based on the information available, it is generally not recommended to consume chili that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can start to grow rapidly on meat and meat dishes when the temperature reaches 40°F (4°C) or above [1]. However, there are a few factors to consider in your specific situation.

  1. Temperature: You mentioned that the house is at 65°F (18°C), which is relatively cool. While this temperature is not ideal for bacterial growth, it is still within the "danger zone" (40-140°F or 4-60°C) where bacteria can multiply [1].

  2. Lid on with a crack: Having the lid on the pot with a crack may help to slow down bacterial growth, but it may not be sufficient to prevent it entirely. Bacteria can still enter through the crack and contaminate the chili.

  3. Cold outside: You mentioned that it is cold outside, but the specific temperature is not provided. If the outside temperature is below 40°F (4°C), it may help to keep the chili cooler and slow down bacterial growth. However, it is important to note that this alone may not guarantee the safety of the chili.

Microwaving the chili may help to kill some bacteria, but it may not eliminate all of them, especially if they have already multiplied to unsafe levels. Additionally, microwaving may not heat the chili evenly, which can create hot spots where bacteria can survive.

To ensure food safety, it is generally recommended to follow the "2-hour rule" for perishable foods. If chili has been left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature, it is advisable to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.


Learn more:

  1. Is chili good that sat out in a pot for no more than 4 hours with ...
  2. How Long Can Chili Sit After You Make It? | Our Everyday Life
  3. Can You Eat Chili Left Out Overnight? | Our Everyday Life
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