How Long Can Sliced Turkey Sit Out? (Explained!)

Deli meats are usually kept in the house by most people because they’re easy to make for lunch or a quick snack. But it’s crucial to remember that deli meat should only be kept at room temperature for two hours.

Sliced turkey is a staple ingredient for many sandwiches, but how long can it safely sit out at room temperature before it becomes unsafe to eat? This is a crucial question to ensure food safety and avoid potential food poisoning.

The 2-Hour Rule: A Golden Rule for Perishable Foods

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), sliced turkey should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. This rule applies to all perishable foods, not just sliced turkey. The reason for this strict guideline is the rapid growth of bacteria at room temperature. Between 40°F and 140°F, bacteria multiply at an alarming rate making food unsafe to consume. This temperature range is often referred to as the “Danger Zone” for food safety.

Why Sliced Turkey is Susceptible to Spoilage

Sliced turkey is particularly susceptible to spoilage because it has a high surface area exposed to the air. This allows bacteria to easily contaminate the meat and multiply rapidly. Additionally, sliced turkey is often packaged in plastic wrap or containers that are not airtight, further increasing the risk of contamination

Consequences of Eating Spoiled Sliced Turkey

Consuming spoiled sliced turkey can lead to food poisoning, causing unpleasant symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to dehydration and require medical attention.

Tips for Keeping Sliced Turkey Fresh

To ensure the safety and freshness of your sliced turkey, follow these simple tips:

Refrigerate immediately: As soon as you get home from the store, refrigerate your sliced turkey. This will slow down the growth of bacteria and keep it fresh for longer.
Store in an airtight container: Transfer your sliced turkey to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will prevent it from drying out and absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
Use within 3-5 days: While refrigerated sliced turkey can last for 3-5 days, it’s best to consume it within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste.
Reheat thoroughly: If you’re using leftover sliced turkey, make sure to reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. This will kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage.

Sliced turkey is a delicious and versatile ingredient, but it’s important to handle it properly to ensure food safety. By following the 2-hour rule and storing it correctly, you can enjoy your sliced turkey without worrying about the risks of food poisoning. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out! It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

Why Is There a Two Hour Rule?

The “2-Hour Rule” is advised by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any perishables left out at room temperature. If the food is left out in temperatures of 90°F or higher, then only one hour. After this time, the food becomes unsafe to eat, and you risk food poisoning. Trace amounts of bacteria can be found on foods, such as staphylococcus aureus, salmonella enteritidis, E. coli, Campylobacter, clostridium perfringens, or Bacillus cereus. The 40°F to 140°F range is where bacteria grow most quickly, and deli meats are among the foods most frequently linked to staphylococcal food poisoning. Keeping deli meats refrigerated will not stop the growth of bacteria but will slow it down. The most common signs of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If I Heat My Deli Meat After Leaving It Out, Will It Make It Safe?

If deli meat has been out at room temperature for more than two hours, heating it might not make it safe. Certain bacteria, like staphylococcus aureus (staph), can produce heat-resistant toxins that cooking cannot remove when food is left out for an extended period of time.

Don’t Waste it! Deli Meat – How long does it really last

FAQ

How long can sliced turkey be unrefrigerated?

Most everyone has deli meats around the house, as they are convenient for making lunch or a quick snack. However, it is important to note that deli meat can only be left out at room temperature for two hours.

Can I eat a turkey sandwich that was left out overnight?

It is It is generally not recommended to consume sandwiches that have been left out overnight at room temperature. Leaving perishable food, such as sandwiches, out of refrigeration for an extended period can lead to bacterial growth and foodborne illness.

How do you know when sliced turkey goes bad?

Any discoloration from the original, usually around the edges of sliced meat, means the meat has spoiled. And if you notice mold spots, the deli meat is past its prime and should be tossed out.

How long is deli meat safe?

Information. Packaged lunch meats can be stored in the refrigerator for two weeks before opening. After opening a package of lunch meats or buying sliced lunch meats at a deli, you can refrigerate them for three to five days. Keep your refrigerator at 40 °F or less).