5 Popular Meals Become Harmful When Left Out Too Long

We all love a good home-cooked meal. But what many people don’t realize is that certain popular dishes can quickly become dangerous if they’re left sitting out for too long. Whether it’s on the counter after dinner or left in a lunchbox during a busy day, some foods can grow harmful bacteria that may cause food poisoning — and in some cases, serious illness.

Below are several commonly eaten meals that should never be left at room temperature for more than two hours:

1. Cooked Rice

Rice is a staple food in many households, but once it’s cooked, it becomes a breeding ground for a bacteria called Bacillus cereus. If cooked rice is left out for hours, especially in warm conditions, this bacteria can multiply rapidly. Reheating it won’t always kill the toxins. To stay safe, store leftover rice in the fridge within 1 to 2 hours.

2. Chicken Dishes

Cooked chicken — whether roasted, fried, or grilled — is highly perishable. Leaving it out on the table or in a takeout box for too long can allow Salmonella or Clostridium perfringens to grow. These bacteria can lead to nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Always refrigerate leftover chicken quickly.