I made a mistake and left raw pot roast out overnight to thaw. Do I have to toss it?

Question

It was partially thawed but I forgot about it and this morning I saw it on the counter. It was cold, but not really cold so I don't know if it's still good. Thanks!

Answer 1

Since it was partially frozen to start with, and is still cold, it should be fine.  Just refrigerate it until you use it......

Answer 2

if  it smells bad toss it or if it was thawed out..gross.

Answer 3

For crying out loud

IT is just FINE

Have you no Idea you will REALLY cook it and kill any monster bugs or evil demons,, toss a $10 roast..!!!!

Use common sense,,,

Please

Answer 4

YES, i DEFIENTLY would.

u could end up getting VERY sick.

it's not worth it, believe me!

Answer 5

If it smells ok and was still cold then it should be fine. You'll know it's bad when you open the package and the smell is awful. I wouldn't keep it in the ridge too long, you should cook it soon.

Answer 6

I'm sure it is FINE!

Just make sure you heat it up well before eating.  

Answer 7

Throw it out.  The bacteria that cause food poisoning have had plenty of time to multiply overnight.

The rule of thumb that my microbiology professor told us was that there still have to be ice crystals all the way through the meat in order for it to still be safe.  If there are ice crystals, then it was cold enough in the kitchen to prevent the most common food poisoning bacteria from growing.  

I know, roasts are expensive and tossing it really bites.  We all do it, though.

EDIT:  For the people who say "Cook it anyway":

One of the most common bacteria that causes food poisoning is Staph. aureus.  When this bacteria begins to multiply, it produces a toxin which is released into the food.  It is the TOXIN that causes food poisoning, not the bacteria itself.  And the toxin IS NOT destroyed by cooking!  You can cook that roast until it looks like leather, and the toxin will still be present and can still cause food poisoning.

A little knowledge of science goes a long way in keeping our families' meals safe.