Don’t risk food poisoning! how long can egg bites safely sit out?
What To Know
- According to the USDA, cooked egg bites can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Egg bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Heat egg bites in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Egg bites are a convenient and delicious breakfast option, but they can quickly spoil if not stored properly. So, how long can egg bites sit out before they become unsafe to eat?
The Danger Zone
The “danger zone” for food is between 40°F and 140°F. In this temperature range, bacteria can grow rapidly and multiply, making food unsafe to eat. Egg bites are particularly susceptible to bacteria growth because they are high in protein and moisture.
How Long Can Egg Bites Sit Out at Room Temperature?
According to the USDA, cooked egg bites can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After 2 hours, they should be discarded or refrigerated.
How Long Can Egg Bites Sit Out in the Refrigerator?
Egg bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. After 4 days, they should be discarded.
How to Tell if Egg Bites Have Gone Bad
There are a few signs that egg bites have gone bad:
- Smell: Spoiled egg bites will have a sour or sulfurous smell.
- Texture: Spoiled egg bites will be slimy or watery.
- Color: Spoiled egg bites may have a greenish or grayish tint.
- Mold: If you see any mold on your egg bites, discard them immediately.
How to Safely Store Egg Bites
To ensure that your egg bites stay fresh and safe to eat, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store egg bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Freeze: Egg bites can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Thaw: To thaw egg bites, place them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them on the defrost setting.
Reheating Egg Bites
Egg bites can be reheated in the microwave, oven, or stovetop.
- Microwave: Heat egg bites on high for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake egg bites for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat egg bites in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Food Poisoning from Egg Bites
Eating spoiled egg bites can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Headache
If you experience any of these symptoms after eating egg bites, seek medical attention immediately.
Frequently Discussed Topics
How long can I leave scrambled eggs out?
Scrambled eggs can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
How long can I leave deviled eggs out?
Deviled eggs can sit out at room temperature for up to 4 hours.
How long can I leave hard-boiled eggs out?
Hard-boiled eggs can sit out at room temperature for up to 7 days.
How long can I leave egg salad out?
Egg salad can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
How long can I leave eggs in the fridge?
Raw eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 45 days. Cooked eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
