How long can leftovers sit out?
Under current US federal guidance, perishable food should generally not be left unrefrigerated for more than 2 hours. Above 90°F / 32°C, the limit is 1 hour.
The 2-hour rule for perishable food
Cooked leftovers, takeout and other perishable foods should go into the refrigerator within 2 hours. If the air temperature is above 90°F / 32°C, use the shorter 1-hour limit. Food that has gone beyond the applicable limit should be discarded.
Putting food into the refrigerator later does not undo an exposure that already exceeded the applicable time limit. An overnight period out of refrigeration is beyond both limits.
Picnics and buffets can be different
Food being actively held cold at 40°F / 4°C or below, or hot at 140°F / 60°C or above, is a different situation from food simply sitting out. If safe holding was not maintained, the normal time-and-temperature limits still matter.
Use the details you know
The checker asks for the actual duration and whether the temperature was above 90°F / 32°C. It can also route a refrigerated item that came back out of the fridge, or food served at a picnic, party or buffet, to the appropriate supported check.
Check how long your food was left out
Looking for UK guidance? Read our UK cooked chicken left out guide.
Use the checker for your situation
This page explains general US federal guidance. Check your food using the relevant supported situation.
Sources and scope
Last checked: September 13, 2026.
This resource is based on United States federal guidance for the situations described. It does not replace the checker’s questions or food-specific storage instructions.