Yogurt can safely sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours if the temperature is below 90°F (32°C). If the temperature is 90°F or above, the safe time reduces to 1 hour. Beyond these times, harmful bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of foodborne illness
. Additional details include:
- Yogurt with added fruit and sugar tends to spoil faster because these ingredients promote bacterial growth
- If yogurt is left out for 2 hours or less, it can be refrigerated again, but this will shorten its overall shelf life
- Signs yogurt has gone bad include mold, off odors (rancid or sour smell), excessive liquid separation, or an unpleasant taste
- Some experts suggest yogurt might remain safe up to 4 hours at room temperature under ideal conditions, but official guidelines recommend sticking to the 2-hour rule for safety, especially for vulnerable populations
In summary, to keep yogurt safe and fresh, it should be refrigerated promptly and never left out longer than 2 hours at normal room temperature, or 1 hour if it’s very warm. If in doubt, it’s safer to discard yogurt that has been left out too long.
