Mayonnaise is a perishable food item that should be handled and stored properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Leaving mayo at room temperature for an extended period of time can put you at risk of foodborne illness, especially if it’s been sitting out for several hours.
The general rule of thumb is that mayo should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. This includes both homemade and store-bought mayo, as well as any dishes or sandwiches that contain mayo as an ingredient.
When mayo sits out at room temperature, it creates an environment that is conducive to bacterial growth. This can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning.
To prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, it’s important to refrigerate mayo as soon as possible after use. If you’re unsure how long mayo has been sitting out, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. This is particularly important if you plan on serving mayo to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, or the elderly, as they are more susceptible to foodborne illness.
In summary, mayo should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. It’s important to refrigerate mayo promptly after use to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.