What should be done with food that has been left out at room temperature for over two hours?

Food that has been left out at room temperature for over two hours should be discarded to ensure food safety. When food is left out in the "danger zone" temperature range (typically between 40°F and 140°F), it can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. These bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Discarding the food prevents the risk of consuming contaminated items, protecting both personal health and the health of others. While refrigerating or reheating the food may seem like viable options, they do not guarantee safety, as bacteria that produce toxins might remain even after cooking. Serving the food immediately is also not advisable, as it could still pose a health risk due to the time it spent outside of safe temperature conditions.