What To Know
- BBQ chicken is a perishable food, and it should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Therefore, it is especially important to follow the two-hour rule and to discard any leftover BBQ chicken that has been left out overnight.
- If you are unsure whether or not BBQ chicken has gone bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Barbecued chicken is a summertime staple, but what happens if you accidentally leave it out overnight? Can you eat it, or should you toss it? This blog post will explore the answer to this common food safety question and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
The Dangers of Foodborne Illness
Before we dive into the specifics of BBQ chicken, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with foodborne illness. Foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can contaminate food and cause a range of symptoms, from mild stomach upset to severe illness.
The Two-Hour Rule
The general rule of thumb for food safety is the two-hour rule. This means that perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products, should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. After two hours, bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
BBQ Chicken and the Two-Hour Rule
So, what about BBQ chicken? Does the two-hour rule apply? Yes, it does. BBQ chicken is a perishable food, and it should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
What Happens if You Eat BBQ Chicken Left Out Overnight?
If you eat BBQ chicken that has been left out overnight, you may experience foodborne illness symptoms. These symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Chills
How to Avoid Foodborne Illness from BBQ Chicken
The best way to avoid foodborne illness from BBQ chicken is to follow these simple steps:
1. Refrigerate BBQ chicken promptly. After cooking, refrigerate BBQ chicken within two hours.
2. Reheat BBQ chicken thoroughly. When reheating BBQ chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Discard any leftover BBQ chicken that has been left out overnight.
Special Considerations for Pregnant Women, Children, and the Elderly
Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are at a higher risk of developing foodborne illness. Therefore, it is especially important to follow the two-hour rule and to discard any leftover BBQ chicken that has been left out overnight.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can you eat BBQ chicken that has been left out for more than two hours but has been reheated?
A: No. Reheating BBQ chicken that has been left out for more than two hours will not kill all the bacteria that may have grown. It is best to discard any leftover BBQ chicken that has been left out overnight.
Q: Can you freeze BBQ chicken to extend its shelf life?
A: Yes. BBQ chicken can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze BBQ chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Q: Can you tell if BBQ chicken has gone bad by its smell or appearance?
A: Yes. Spoiled BBQ chicken will have an off smell and may appear slimy or moldy. If you are unsure whether or not BBQ chicken has gone bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
