We've all been there: you pour yourself a glass of milk, get distracted, and come back to it later. But is it still safe to drink? The short answer is: not for long!
Food safety experts recommend that milk, regardless of type (cow's milk, almond milk, soy milk, etc.), should not sit out at room temperature for longer than **two hours**. If the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this time is reduced to **one hour**.
Why the rush? Milk provides a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses. Even if the milk doesn't smell or look spoiled, it could still be unsafe to drink. When in doubt, it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard milk that has been left out for too long. A little waste is better than a stomach ache!