Expert: Carl Copeland - 1/16/2008

Question
I made a beef stew in my crock pot this morning, but forgot to turn the crock pot on.  The beef was mixed with raw potatoes, raw carrots, beef broth and seasonings.  It was left out about 7 hours before the crockpot was turned on.  If I thoroughly cook the stew, do you think it is safe?

Answer
Rhonda,
How are you doing?  Talking about the crockpot I currently have some ribs in the crockpot right now. Bacteria has already grown to what extent I do not know. Two hours is not recomended but 7 hours is quite awhile.

If you have read any of my answers you know I will not tell anyone to throw food away outright, this is a decision you will have to make. Cooking thoroughly or at a high temperature will not take away the fact that the meat was left out for an extended period of time.  

For more Food Storage info particulary in reference to meat please visit

http://www.Food-Storage-Info.com/meatstorage.html

Take care,
Carl