Can cooked rice be left out overnight?

No, it is not safe to leave cooked rice out at room temperature for more than two hours, including overnight. When rice is cooked, it becomes an excellent environment for bacteria to grow, particularly if it is left at room temperature for an extended period of time.

Bacteria can multiply rapidly on cooked rice, which can lead to foodborne illness if the rice is consumed. Some strains of bacteria, such as Bacillus cereus, can produce toxins that can survive even after the rice is reheated, so it is important to be careful when handling and storing cooked rice.

If you have cooked rice that you cannot eat right away, it is recommended that you store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible after it has cooled down. Cooked rice can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, or in the freezer for up to six months. When reheating cooked rice, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may be present.

Can cooked rice be left out overnight?

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