AboutCarol Schlitt Expertise I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).
Experience I am an Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety. I am a certified HACCP manager and a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Organizations International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, Society for Nutrition Education.
Education/Credentials BS - University of Illinois
MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
Question I prepared some macaroni and cheese for my wife, and forgot to refrigerate it until exactly 1 hour after it was prepared. It was covered with a lid and on the stove (still warm when refrigerated). Would it be safe? She has severe Irritible Bowel Syndrome and certainly doesn't need any GI infection. THANKS!
Answer Hi Kenneth,
Yes -- the macaroni and cheese should be safe as you are well within the time range for refrigerating food after preparation. We usually say prepared food should be refrigerated within 2 hours of preparation.
Of course there are not absolute guarantees in life -- but in this case I think your chances are so miniscule they aren't worth talking about.
Sincerely,
Carol C. Schlitt
Extension Educator, Nutrition and Wellness
University of Illinois
