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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/fish-two-hour-rule

On a day above 90 degrees F, how long can cooked seafood safely sit out?

No more than one hour.

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  1. Up to two hours
  2. Up to four hours
  3. No more than one hour ✔

Why: FDA says never leave seafood out more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour when it is above 90 degrees F. Bacteria grow fast in warm temperatures.

Huh, didn't know that: FDA says seafood you will use within 2 days should be kept in a fridge at 40 degrees F or below.

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References

Answer: No more than one hour. FDA says never leave seafood out more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour when it is above 90 degrees F. Bacteria grow fast in warm temperatures.

  1. FDA Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood Safely www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/selecting-and-serving-fresh-and-frozen-seafood-safely
    for more than 2 hours or for more than 1 hour when temperatures are above 90°F.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FDA Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood Safely www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/selecting-and-serving-fresh-and-frozen-seafood-safely
    Bacteria that can cause illness grow quickly at warm temperatures (between 40°F and 140°F).
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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