Welcome to our blog post on “How Long Can Pizza Sit Out.” Pizza is a beloved food that many people around the world enjoy.
Whether it’s a quick slice from your local pizzeria or a homemade pizza from your kitchen, it’s hard to resist the delicious combination of melted cheese and savory toppings.
However, one question that often comes up is how long pizza can safely sit out before it becomes unsafe to eat.
In this post, we will explore the answer to this question and provide tips on properly storing pizza to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat. Keep reading to learn more!
How Long Can Pizza Sit Out?
Pizza should not sit out for longer than 2 hours. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), perishable foods, such as pizza, should not be left out of the refrigerator for longer than 2 hours or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F. This is because bacteria can rapidly grow on the food, making it unsafe to eat.
How Can You Tell If Pizza Is Bad?
There are a few ways to tell if the pizza has gone bad:
- Smell: A sour or off odor is a clear indication that the pizza is no longer safe to eat.
- Mold: Visible mold on the pizza is a sure sign that it has gone bad and should be thrown away immediately.
- Texture: If the pizza has a slimy or tacky texture, it’s likely that it has gone bad and should not be consumed.
- Taste: If the pizza has a sour or rancid taste, it’s no longer safe to eat.
- Age: Pizza should be consumed within 3-4 days of being made or stored in the refrigerator. If it’s been longer than that, it’s best to discard it.
How To Properly Store Pizza?
Properly storing pizza can help to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible. Here are some tips for storing pizza:
1. Keep It Cool
Pizza should be stored in the refrigerator as soon as possible after it’s made or purchased. The ideal temperature for storing pizza is between 33-40°F.
2. Use Airtight Containers
To prevent the pizza from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors, it’s best to store it in an airtight container. This will also help to keep it fresh for longer.
3. Slice It First
If you plan on eating the pizza over a period of time, it’s best to slice it first before storing it. This will make it easier to reheat, and it will also help to prevent it from drying out.
4. Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftover pizza, it’s best to reheat it to at least 165°F before eating. This will help to kill any bacteria that may have formed during storage.
5. Freeze It
If you aren’t able to eat the pizza within 3-4 days, you can freeze it to extend its shelf life. To freeze pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or plastic bag. Frozen pizza can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your pizza stays fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible.
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