What is the maximum recommended time for food delivery to remain at room temperature?

The maximum recommended time for food delivery to remain at room temperature is 2 hours. This guideline is critical in food safety to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, which can multiply rapidly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F. Keeping food at room temperature for longer than this period significantly increases the risk of foodborne illnesses.

In practical terms, once food is delivered, it should be consumed or refrigerated within this 2-hour window to ensure safety. If food remains out longer than this timeframe, it may not be safe to eat, even if it looks or smells fine. Thus, adhering to this guideline helps in maintaining food safety during handling and distribution.