We’ve all been there – a half-eaten pizza box left on the counter, forgotten in the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what happens if we give in to temptation and take a bite of that leftover slice? Can it make us sick, or is it still safe to eat?
The answer may surprise you. While pizza left out for too long can harbor harmful bacteria, there are ways to determine whether it’s still safe to consume. So before you give up on that delicious slice, let’s dive into the science behind leftover pizza and find out what happens if you eat it.
If pizza is left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and E. coli. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. To avoid getting sick, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze leftover pizza as soon as possible.
What Happens If You Eat Pizza That Was Left Out?
Leftover pizza is a common sight in most households, especially after a party or a get-together with friends. Many people wonder if it is safe to eat pizza that has been left out for a long time. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors. In this article, we will explore what happens if you eat pizza that was left out and how to avoid any potential health risks.
What Happens to Pizza When Left Out?
When pizza is left out for an extended period, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The warm temperature and moisture present in the pizza are ideal for bacteria to grow, which can lead to food poisoning. The longer pizza stays at room temperature, the higher the risk of contamination.
The most common bacteria found in leftover pizza are Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella. These bacteria can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even fever. In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to hospitalization.
To avoid the risk of contamination, it is essential to store pizza properly. If you plan to eat it later, refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. If it has been left out for more than two hours, it is safer to throw it away.
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
Storing leftover pizza correctly can help prevent food poisoning. Here are some tips on how to store it safely:
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking: As soon as the pizza has cooled down, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
- Freeze it for later: If you don’t plan to eat the pizza within a few days, freeze it. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer bag.
- Label and date: Always label the container with the date you stored it, so you know how long it has been in the fridge or freezer.
How Long Can You Store Leftover Pizza?
Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. However, it is best to consume it within two days for optimal taste and texture. If you have frozen the pizza, it can last for up to two months.
Can You Reheat Leftover Pizza?
Reheating leftover pizza is safe, but it is essential to do it correctly. Here are some tips on how to reheat leftover pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place your pizza on a baking sheet and put it in the oven.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat it in a microwave. Place the pizza on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 30 seconds to a minute.
Benefits of Storing Pizza Properly?
Storing pizza properly can help prevent food poisoning and ensure that it tastes good when you eat it later. It also reduces food waste and saves you money by allowing you to enjoy your leftovers.
Leftover Pizza vs. Freshly Cooked Pizza
Freshly cooked pizza is always the best option, as it is free from any potential bacteria and tastes delicious. However, if you have leftover pizza, it is essential to store it properly and reheat it correctly to avoid any health risks.
Conclusion
In summary, eating pizza that has been left out for an extended period can lead to food poisoning. It is crucial to store leftover pizza properly and reheat it correctly to avoid any potential health risks. By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy your leftover pizza safely and deliciously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about what happens if you eat pizza that was left out:
What happens if you eat pizza that was left out?
Leaving pizza out for too long can cause harmful bacteria to grow on it. If you eat pizza that was left out at room temperature for more than two hours, you may experience symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms can last for several days and can be especially dangerous for young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
If you are unsure how long the pizza has been left out or if it has been left out for more than two hours, it is best to throw it away to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
How can you tell if pizza has gone bad?
There are several signs that pizza has gone bad, including a sour smell, a slimy texture, and mold growth. If the pizza has been left out for more than two hours, it is best to throw it away to prevent the risk of foodborne illness, even if it looks and smells fine.
If you are unsure whether the pizza has gone bad or not, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it away. Eating spoiled or contaminated food can lead to serious health problems.
Can you reheat pizza that has been left out?
No, it is not safe to reheat pizza that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly on pizza left out at room temperature, and reheating it may not kill all the harmful bacteria. It is best to throw away pizza that has been left out for an extended period to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
If you want to reheat pizza, it is best to do so in the oven or on the stovetop while ensuring that the pizza reaches a temperature of at least 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.
How long can pizza sit out before it goes bad?
Pizza can sit out at room temperature for up to two hours before it starts to go bad. After two hours, harmful bacteria can start to grow on the pizza, which can cause food poisoning if the pizza is eaten. If the room temperature is above 90°F, pizza should not sit out for more than one hour.
To keep pizza fresh for longer, it should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Cooked pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days and in the freezer for up to two months.
What is the best way to store leftover pizza?
The best way to store leftover pizza is to place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Cooked pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If you want to store pizza for longer than four days, it is best to freeze it. Wrap the pizza slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen pizza can be stored for up to two months.
In conclusion, eating pizza that was left out can lead to food poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. It is essential to store leftover pizza in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below within two hours of cooking or ordering.
Moreover, reheating pizza in the microwave or oven may not kill all the bacteria present in the food. Therefore, it is advisable to discard any pizza that has been left out for more than two hours or if it looks or smells odd.
Finally, taking adequate precautions can prevent food poisoning and other health risks associated with eating leftover pizza. Always store pizza properly, reheat it thoroughly, and avoid consuming food that has been left out for an extended period. Stay safe and enjoy your pizza!
