Expert: Carol Schlitt - 9/3/2007

Question
We accidentally left a sirloin steak and a slice of ham that was cooked on the grill, in the microwave for 13 hrs (the meat was put in there to keep our pet from getting it while it cooled). I will not eat it but my husband sees nothing wrong with eating it. Could this cause him serious problems or death?

Answer
Hi Kathy,

It is not recommended to consume potentially hazardous foods (meat, milk, dairy, poultry) that have been at room temperature for over 2 hours. Unfortunately, some harmful bacteria can grow to levels that can make you ill, even though the food looks good, smells good and tastes good. And unfortunately, some bacteria produce a toxin during this time in the danger zone that is not deactivated by further cooking or reheating. Thus, the recommendation to not consume foods that have been subject to conditions that can encourage the growth of bacteria.

The most common side effects of eating food that has been out in the danger zone are flu-like symptoms -- diarrhea, vomiting, etc.  Rarely does it cause anything more serious.

It's entirely possible that your husband could eat the meat and everything would be fine.  Then again it's like playing Russian roulette.  Does your husband feel lucky?

Our motto is..."When in doubt....Throw it out!"

Carol