What is how long can pepperoni sit out?

Pepperoni Safety at Room Temperature

Pepperoni, being a cured sausage, has some inherent protection against spoilage. However, it's still susceptible to bacterial growth at room temperature. The general guideline is to follow the "2-hour rule":

• The 2-Hour Rule: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/2-Hour%20Rule">Perishable foods</a>, including pepperoni, should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Higher Temperatures: If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this timeframe reduces to 1 hour. This is especially crucial during outdoor activities like picnics or BBQs.

Risks of Leaving Pepperoni Out Too Long

• Bacterial Growth: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Bacterial%20Growth">Harmful bacteria</a>, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Salmonella, can multiply rapidly at room temperature.
• Toxin Production: Some bacteria produce toxins that are not destroyed by cooking.
• Foodborne Illness: Consuming pepperoni that has been left out for too long can lead to food poisoning, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Recommendations

• Refrigerate Promptly: After opening a package of pepperoni, refrigerate any unused portion immediately.
• Storage: Store pepperoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Discard: If you're unsure how long pepperoni has been sitting out, it's best to discard it for safety reasons. "When in doubt, throw it out."