What To Know
- Soup that is left out at a higher temperature will spoil more quickly than soup that is left out at a lower temperature.
- If you are ever in doubt about whether or not chicken soup has gone bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
- If the chicken soup has been frozen, it is safe to thaw it in the refrigerator or in the microwave.
Chicken soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, one question that often arises is whether or not chicken soup can be left out overnight. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the temperature of the soup, the type of soup, and how it was stored.
How Long Can Chicken Soup Be Left Out?
According to the USDA, cooked chicken soup can be safely left out at room temperature for up to two hours. After two hours, the soup should be refrigerated or discarded. If the soup is left out for longer than two hours, it may become contaminated with bacteria and cause food poisoning.
Factors That Affect How Long Chicken Soup Can Be Left Out
The following factors can affect how long chicken soup can be left out safely:
- Temperature: The temperature of the soup is a major factor in how long it can be left out. Soup that is left out at a higher temperature will spoil more quickly than soup that is left out at a lower temperature.
- Type of soup: The type of soup can also affect how long it can be left out. Soups that contain dairy or eggs will spoil more quickly than soups that do not.
- Storage: How the soup is stored can also affect how long it can be left out. Soup that is stored in a covered container will stay fresh longer than soup that is stored in an open container.
How to Tell If Chicken Soup Has Gone Bad
There are a few signs that can indicate that chicken soup has gone bad. These signs include:
- Smell: If the soup has a sour or off smell, it has likely gone bad.
- Taste: If the soup tastes sour or off, it has likely gone bad.
- Appearance: If the soup has changed color or has developed mold, it has likely gone bad.
What to Do If Chicken Soup Has Gone Bad
If you think that your chicken soup has gone bad, it is best to discard it immediately. Eating spoiled soup can cause food poisoning, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms.
How to Safely Store Chicken Soup
To safely store chicken soup, follow these steps:
- Refrigerate the soup: After cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature and then refrigerate it in a covered container. The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freeze the soup: If you want to store the soup for longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container. The soup will stay fresh in the freezer for up to six months.
When in Doubt, Throw It Out
If you are ever in doubt about whether or not chicken soup has gone bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it out. Food poisoning is a serious illness that can be avoided by following proper food safety practices.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I leave chicken soup out overnight in the winter?
A: No, chicken soup should not be left out overnight, even in the winter. The cold temperature will not prevent bacteria from growing in the soup.
Q: How can I tell if chicken soup has gone bad if it has been frozen?
A: If the chicken soup has been frozen, it is safe to thaw it in the refrigerator or in the microwave. Once thawed, the soup should be checked for signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, off taste, or changed color.
Q: What are the symptoms of food poisoning from chicken soup?
A: The symptoms of food poisoning from chicken soup can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to dehydration and hospitalization.
