Expert: Carl Copeland - 3/23/2008

Question
We "cooked" a precooked Hormel ham today and forgot to put it in the frig afterwards.  It is now 5 hours after the fact and the ham has been sitting at room temp. Is it safe to eat?

Thanks

Answer
Blair,

How are you doing? And if you celebrate this day Happy Easter.

All leftovers should be refrigerated at 40 degrees Fahrenheit within 2 hours after being cooked. We know that when we are serving large meals this may not happen in a timely manner. I have a problem telling others when or when not to throw away their food. There has been some bacteria growth on the ham but I wouldn't throw it away.
For more Food Storage info please visit

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

Take Care,
Carl