Ask Dr. Potato

The IPC office is closed for the holiday but don't fear… With 939 posts, chances are your holiday mashed potato questions have probably already been answered! Keywords that might help you find the answers you’re looking for include: ahead, group, advance, and yield.

If you're looking specifically for Mashed Potato information, make sure to visit our All Things Mashed Potatoes page which has everything you need to know about preparing perfect mashed potatoes.

View All Things Mashed Potatoes
Back To Dr. Potato Home

How Long Can Home Fries Stay Out in Room Temperature and Still Be Safe to Eat?

Q:

How long can home fries stay out in room temperature and still be safe to eat when sealed in a plastic take out container?

A:

Home fries are tastiest and safest when eaten right away.

Everything Dr. Potato has learned points to this…bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F - 140°F. In general, cooked fries should be discarded after two hours if left at room temperature. A sealed container with fries will certainly accelerate the temperature and humidity that fuels bacteria growth, so figure even less time for safe consumption.