As a food safety expert, I can tell you that yogurt, like most perishable foods, should be kept refrigerated to maintain its quality and safety. However, if you're curious about how long you can leave yogurt out before it starts to spoil, it's important to consider a few factors.

Yogurt is a perishable food item that contains live bacteria cultures, which are sensitive to temperature changes. When yogurt is left out of the refrigerator, the temperature rise can cause the bacteria to multiply too quickly, leading to a change in the yogurt's texture and taste. Additionally, harmful bacteria can also grow if the yogurt is left out for an extended period.

Generally, yogurt can be safely left out for a short period of time, but it's best not to exceed more than two hours at room temperature. If the temperature is particularly warm or if it's a hot day, this time frame can be even shorter. After this period, the quality of the yogurt will begin to deteriorate, and it could become unsafe to eat.

To ensure safety and quality, it's always best to store yogurt in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). If you're unsure whether the yogurt is still good, check for signs of spoilage such as an off smell, mold, or a change in texture.

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According to the US Department of Health & Human Services, you should throw out yogurt if it's been out at room temperature for more than two hours. If the temperature is higher than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, you only have one hour to eat that yogurt sitting out of the refrigerator.read more >>