Pizza is one of the greatest pleasures of life for food lovers, and for Calgarians, Top In Town Pizza is their go-to pizzeria in Calgary NE. Ain’t it?
It is also true that a vast majority of people can’t eat their pizza when it’s piping hot. So, they make it sit out for some time. But, the question is how long can it be kept out?
Well, for that you must understand the fact that pizza is a perishable food item and cannot be kept out overnight. Believe it or not, a pizza can be left out safely for just around 1-2 hours depending on the room temperature and storage conditions.
Let’s consider a few more things that affect how long a pizza stays fit for consumption.
1. The Room Temperature
If the room temperature is considered, the general rule of thumb is that a pizza can sit out at room temperature for no more than two hours. This is assuming that the room temperature is around 70°F or cooler. If the room is warmer than 70°F, then the pizza should only sit out for one hour.
After two hours at room temperature, the pizza should be discarded to prevent the risk of foodborne illness. Bacteria can grow quickly on pizza, especially on the toppings and cheese, which provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
2. If Put In A Refrigerator
If you’re not going to eat the pizza within two hours, it’s best to refrigerate it to keep it safe for consumption. The pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. However, the longer it sits in the refrigerator, the more the quality will deteriorate. The crust may become soggy, and the toppings may lose their flavor and texture.
3. On Freezing
If you’re not going to eat the pizza within four days, then it’s best to freeze it to extend its shelf life. Pizza can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat the frozen pizza, allow it to be put in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the pizza in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through. But, do not forget that this would change the nutritional value of the stored pizza.
What dangers does eating a pizza after too long may carry?
So, what happens if I eat pizza that has been left out overnight? As a result, you are more likely to suffer food poisoning or contract a food-borne illness.
Food-borne illnesses can be serious and be things like:
- An infection from staphylococcus aureus (MRSA bacteria)
- Salmonella
- Escherichia coli (E. coli infection)
- Campylobacter infection
The Gist
It’s very much clear from the facts that it is better not to store pizza for long if kept at room temperature, probably 2 hours. After that, it may be unsafe to eat it. After two hours, the pizza should be refrigerated or discarded to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. When storing pizza in the refrigerator or freezer, it’s important to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out and to keep it fresh.
Longing for a great pizza? Visit Top In Town Pizza. With our homemade sauces and freshly baked pizza pie, we’re one of the most loved pizzeria in Calgary NE. Here you will find the pizza of your choice.