Serving foods at cookouts, tailgates, and other outdoor events need a little extra attention when temperatures are hot.
Adair Hoover, ©2026 Clemson Extension
How Long Can Food Stay Out in Hot Weather?
South Carolina is extra hot this summer, with many days reaching temperatures above 90°F. If you are preparing or serving food outdoors you will need to be extra mindful of food safety.
Many types of harmful bacteria thrive at temperatures between 40F and 140°F, otherwise known as the “food safety danger zone.” And when the temperature is above 90°F, they grow even faster.
Food should not be held in the food safety zone for more than:
- 2 hours when outdoor temperatures are below 90°F
- 1 hour when outdoor temperatures are 90°F or higher
That means that after food has been cooked and removed from its cooking source or refrigeration, there is a limit to the amount of time it can be kept out of temperature control before it must be packaged and placed in a refrigerator or cooler with plenty of ice.
The 1-Hour Rule for Outdoor Food Safety Above 90°F
So, in the hot days of summer, once foods are set out to be served, they are in the food safety danger zone, and you have 2 hours until they must be placed in the refrigerator.
On extra hot days, when the temperature is hovering around 90°F, you only have an hour.
Learn More About Safe Outdoor Cooking and Picnics
For more information on outdoor cooking, visit the Clemson Extension Home and Garden Information Center:
HGIC 3543, Food Safety for Outdoor Cookouts|
HGIC Blog How to Grill Safely
HGIC 3602 – Safe Picnics
