You can leave Greek yogurt out at room temperature for up to two hours. However, this time is reduced in warmer conditions.
Here's a breakdown:
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At room temperature (below 90°F/32°C): Greek yogurt can safely sit out for a maximum of two hours.
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Above 90°F (32°C): The time decreases to just one hour. This is especially important to remember during summer months or in warm climates.
Leaving Greek yogurt out longer than the recommended time increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. It's best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate it promptly.
Why does temperature matter?
Bacteria thrive in warm environments. The longer Greek yogurt sits at room temperature, the more opportunity bacteria have to multiply, potentially reaching unsafe levels.
What happens if it's been out too long?
It's best to discard Greek yogurt that has been left out longer than the recommended time. While it might look and smell fine, harmful bacteria may have already started to grow. It's not worth risking food poisoning.
Summary:
To ensure food safety, limit the time Greek yogurt sits at room temperature to a maximum of two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). When in doubt, throw it out.
