Food Safety Issues/unrefrigerated sour cream

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Expert: Carol Schlitt - 7/24/2006


Question
When canoe camping, how long is unrefrigerated sour cream safe for?

Answer
Hi Cor,

Sour cream is considered a potentially hazardous food (phf) (ie --it can support the growth of bacteria)and therefore should be refrigerated at all times.  The general rule of thumb for phf foods is a maximum of 2 hours out of refrigeration. After that, it is advised to discard the food because it could have allowed bacteria to grow to a dangerous level.

Sour cream needs to be kept cold while on the canoe trip so keep it in the cooler.

Have fun on your trip.

Carol  

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Volunteer

Carol Schlitt

Expertise

I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).

Experience

I am a former Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety, having retired August 1, 2010. I am a certified HACCP manager, a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health and a 3rd party food safety and OSHA auditor of restaurants.

Organizations
International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, St. Louis Culinary Society.

Education/Credentials
BS - University of Illinois MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville

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