According to the United States Department of Agriculture meat can be left in a car for up to two hours before it becomes unsafe to eat. This is because the temperature inside a car can reach up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit which is high enough to promote the growth of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
So if you’re transporting meat in your car be sure to get it to its destination within two hours. Otherwise you’ll need to either cook it or refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Of course there are always exceptions to the rule. If the outside temperature is extremely hot (over 90 degrees Fahrenheit) you’ll need to get the meat to its final destination within one hour. And if the meat is refrigerated or frozen when you put it in the car you can extend the amount of time it can sit in the vehicle.
But in general it’s best to err on the side of caution and not let meat sit in a car for more than two hours. After that you’re taking your chances with food poisoning.
Is it safe to eat meat that has been sitting in a car?
No it is not safe to eat meat that has been sitting in a car.
How long can meat safely sit in a car?
Meat can safely sit in a car for up to two hours.
How long can meat safely sit in a cooler?
Meat can safely sit in a cooler for up to four hours.
What is the danger of eating meat that has been sitting in a car?
The danger of eating meat that has been sitting in a car is that the meat will spoil and bacteria will grow.
How can you tell if meat has gone bad?
You can tell if meat has gone bad by the odor color and texture of the meat.
Can meat that has been sitting in a car be eaten if it is cooked?
Yes meat that has been sitting in a car can be eaten if it is cooked.
What is the best way to store meat?
The best way to store meat is in the refrigerator.
How long does cooked meat last in the fridge?
Cooked meat lasts three to four days in the fridge.
How long does cooked meat last in the freezer?
Cooked meat lasts two to six months in the freezer.
Is it safe to eat meat that has been frozen and then thawed?
Yes it is safe to eat meat that has been frozen and then thawed.
What is the best way to thaw meat?
The best way to thaw meat is in the refrigerator.
How long does meat last in the fridge after it has been thawed?
Meat last one to two days in the fridge after it has been thawed.
Can meat be thawed and then refrozen?
Yes meat can be thawed and then refrozen.
What is the danger of eating meat that has been frozen and thawed more than once?
The danger of eating meat that has been frozen and thawed more than once is that the meat will spoil and bacteria will grow.
Can meat that has been frozen and thawed be cooked?
Yes meat that has been frozen and thawed can be cooked.
